Autism spectrum disorders linked to neurotransmitter switching in the brain

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) involve mild to severe impairment of social, behavioral and communication abilities. These disorders can significantly impact performance at school, in employment and in other areas of life. 

Neurobiologists have now found evidence of altered development of the nervous system in mouse models of autism spectrum disorders. They linked environmentally induced forms of ASD to changes in neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers that allow neurons to communicate with each other. They also discovered that manipulating these neurotransmitters at early stages of development can prevent the appearance of autistic-like behaviours.

The researchers say the new results are consistent with other evidence that altering signaling in the nervous system during the early stages of development can later carry negative consequences as the brain matures.

Swetha K. Godavarthi et al, Embryonic exposure to environmental factors drives transmitter switching in the neonatal mouse cortex causing autistic-like adult behavior, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2024). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2406928121. doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2406928121

Sustainable solution to vitamin B12 deficiency

In new research published in the journal Discover Food, researchers report the use of state-of-the-art biotechnology to cultivate photosynthetically-controlled Spirulina, and produce carbon–neutral and nutritious biomass containing unopposed, biologically active vitamin B₁₂, in levels comparable to beef meat. This is the first time biologically active vitamin B₁₂ has been reported in Spirulina.

Their new study reveals a potential solution to one of the most widespread micronutrient deficiencies: vitamin B₁₂. With more than a billion individuals worldwide suffering from low levels of this essential vitamin, the reliance on meat and dairy products for adequate B₁₂ intake (2.4 µg/day) presents significant environmental challenges.

While Spirulina blue-green algae (Arthrospira platensis) has been proposed as a healthier and more sustainable substitute for meat and dairy, the so-called traditional Spirulina has fallen short as a viable alternative due to its content of pseudo-vitamin B₁₂, a form not bioavailable to humans. This limitation has hindered its potential to address vitamin B₁₂ deficiencies, and fully replace beef meat in human diets.

In the present study, the research team evaluated a biotechnology system developed by VAXA Technologies in Iceland, focusing on its engineering components, inputs (such as energy), and outputs, including biomass composition. The system employs photonic management (modified light conditions) to enhance active vitamin B₁₂ production in Spirulina, along with other bioactive  compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.

This innovative approach yielded carbon-neutral, nutritious biomass containing biologically active vitamin B12 at levels comparable to beef (1.64 µg/100g in PCS vs. 0.7–1.5 μg/100g in beef).

The findings demonstrate that photosynthetically controlled Spirulina can produce desirable levels of active vitamin B12, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional animal-source foods.

This breakthrough marks a significant step towards addressing global vitamin B12 deficiency sustainably, reducing reliance on environmentally taxing meat and dairy production.

A. Tzachor et al, Photonic management of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) in scalable photobioreactors to achieve biologically active unopposed vitamin B12, Discover Food (2024). DOI: 10.1007/s44187-024-00152-1

First visualization of valence electrons reveals fundamental nature of chemical bonding

The distribution of outermost shell electrons, known as valence electrons, of organic molecules was experimentally observed for the first time by a team led by Nagoya University in Japan. As the interactions between atoms are governed by the valence electrons, their findings shine light on the fundamental nature of chemical bonds, with implications for pharmacy and chemical engineering. The results were published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society.

The behavior of the electrons in atoms is complex, forming electron orbitals that have different functions depending on their closeness to the nucleus. The inner shell electrons, called core electrons, are used for self-stabilization and do not interact with other atoms. On the other hand, the outer electrons, or valence electrons, define most of the material's properties, especially during bonding with other atoms.

Understanding a material's properties requires extracting information about its valence electrons. However, it has been difficult to experimentally isolate only the valence electron information, leading to researchers having to rely on theoretical models and spectroscopy to estimate it. By conducting world-class synchrotron X-ray diffraction experiments at SPring-8, the research group discovered that it is possible to selectively extract only the valence electron density of atoms in a crystal.

They named this method the CDFS method. Using this method, they observed the electron state of the glycine molecule, a type of amino acid.

Although the method was relatively simple to perform, the result was impressive. The observed electron cloud did not exhibit the smooth, enveloping shape that many predicted, but rather a fragmented, discrete state.

Hara, T. et al. Unveiling the Nature of Chemical Bonds in Real Space, Journal of the American Chemical Society (2024). DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c05673

Part 2

Mediterranean diet supplement can affect epigenetics associated with healthy aging

As life expectancy increases, the attention and interest in safe and effective lifestyle interventions to promote healthy aging are growing rapidly. One of the elements explored is that of unhealthy diets, with poor nutritional value. Therefore, lifestyle changes which include dietary interventions could promote positive effects, and potentially reduce the risk of developing aging-related diseases.

Previous studies showed that phytonutrients, natural compounds found in vegetables, fruits and berries, support health and lower the risk of age-related conditions such as cardiovascular disease and dementia.

The Mediterranean diet is mainly based on abundant phytonutrients. The Mediterranean diet consists of olive oil as the primary source of fat, fresh fruit, low to moderate amounts of seafood, poultry, dairy products, wine and eggs. Sweets containing sugar or honey and red meat are consumed sparingly. Adhering to this diet could be protective against several conditions.

DailyColors is a dietary supplement designed to mimic the benefits of the Mediterranean diet by providing important nutrients found in fruits, berries, and vegetables. These nutrients, like Quercetin and Anthocyanins, are known for their potential health benefits, particularly in aging.

A collaborative study between the Center for Healthy Brain Aging at King's and Center for Age-related Medicine, Stavanger University Hospital, Norway, aimed to explore how DailyColors affects certain blood markers linked to aging and related diseases, such as how our cells produce energy, inflammation, and stress in the body.

The study also looked at changes in DNA methylation in saliva, which can provide indicators of biological aging.

Part 1

Thirty adults, aged 55–80, with a body mass index over 25, participated in the study. Participants took either DailyColors or a placebo for one week, then switched after a break.

During the placebo phase, a blood marker called CD38, which is linked to poor cell function and inflammation, increased. This didn't happen when participants took DailyColors. There was also a trend showing reduced oxidative stress (a process that can damage cells) after taking the supplement.

This nutraceutical clinical study highlights the strengths at King's in academic-industry collaborations, involving researchers from across four continents in nine institutions and two companies.
This study is the first to show that a novel supplement containing plant compounds found in the Mediterranean diet can alter blood biomarkers and epigenetic profiles that are associated with healthy aging.

In a follow-up study with 26 participants who continued to take DailyColors for a month, the study found changes in the way DNA is marked, which might slow down some of the negative effects of aging. Although the effects observed were minimal, the study suggests that DailyColors could help slow down certain aging processes. However, more extensive studies are needed to confirm these benefits.

The work is published in the journal Antioxidants.

Autologous platelet-gel (APG) is the process of harvesting ones own cells (platelets), concentrating them most often through centrifugation, exposing them to an agonist which induces activation which releases intrinsic substances, and applying them to a target area to accelerate wound healing. APG is attractive because it concentrates a large number of biologically active substances, which are primarily proteins that participate in complex series of mechanisms involved in inflammation and wound healing. It has been used in numerous applications including sports medicine, dermatology, and surgery.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4813532/

Test of a prototype quantum internet runs under New York City for half a month

To introduce quantum networks into the marketplace, engineers must overcome the fragility of entangled states in a fiber cable and ensure the efficiency of signal delivery. Now, scientists at Qunnect Inc. in Brooklyn, New York, have taken a large step forward by operating just such a network under the streets of New York City.

While others have transmitted entangled photons before, there has been too much noise and polarization drift in the fiber environment for entanglement to survive, particularly in a long-term stable network.

Now  this team's new network design, methods and results are published in PRX Quantum.

For their prototype network, the Qunnect researchers used a leased 34-kilometer-long fiber circuit they called the GothamQ loop. Using polarization-entangled photons, they operated the loop for 15 continuous days, achieving an uptime of 99.84% and a compensation fidelity of 99% for entangled photon pairs transmitted at a rate of about 20,000 per second. At a half-million entangled photon pairs per second, the fidelity was still nearly 90%.

The polarization of a photon is the direction of its electric field. (This may be easier to understand in the wave picture of light.) You're perhaps familiar with the phenomenon from polarized sunglasses, which are filters that let light from one polarization direction through but block others, thus cutting down on glare reflected off water, snow and glass, for instance.

Polarized photons are useful because they are easy to create, simple to manipulate (with polarized filters) and to measure.

Qunnect's GothamQ loop demonstration was especially noteworthy for its duration, the hands-off nature of the operation time, and its uptime percentage. It showed, they wrote, "progress toward a fully automated practical entanglement network" that would be required for a quantum internet.

Alexander N. Craddock et al, Automated Distribution of Polarization-Entangled Photons Using Deployed New York City Fibers, PRX Quantum (2024). DOI: 10.1103/PRXQuantum.5.030330

Part 2

'Humanity is failing': Official report warns our chance to save the Great Barrier Reef is fast closing

The Great Barrier Reef will continue to deteriorate, largely due to climate change, and the window to secure its future is rapidly closing. That is the sobering conclusion of a major new report into the state of the reef.

The report was released by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. It confirms what scientists have long known: humanity is killing the Great Barrier Reef, and other reefs around the world, by failing to curb the greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming. 

Unless humanity takes dramatic action to halt climate change, we will lose the beautiful, complex reefs that have existed on Earth for millennia. As this latest report shows, even governments and officials now acknowledge this fact.

Warming oceans and severe tropical cyclones are compounding other threats such as crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks, poor water quality and unsustainable fishing.

While recent recovery in some ecosystem values demonstrates that the reef is still resilient, its capacity to tolerate and recover is jeopardized by a rapidly changing climate.

Bleaching occurs when corals become so heat-stressed they eject the tiny algae living inside their tissues. These organisms give coral some of its color and help power its metabolism. In mild bleaching events, corals can recover. But in the severe events that are becoming more common, corals do not survive.

Part 1

The report said climate-driven disturbances are compounding the effects of other chronic damage to the reef from:

unsustainable fishing
pollution
sediment runoff
outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish.
Among other key findings of the report were that:

most populations of marine turtles have declined
species such as seabirds, sharks, rays, dugongs and seagrasses have recovered in some areas and plateaued or declined in others
populations of estuarine crocodiles are recovering
many species in declines are listed as threatened or protected.
Humanity must take urgent action to limit global temperature rise. But we are failing. We are failing the Great Barrier Reef and indeed, coral reefs across the planet.
2024 opens a new chapter for the reef. Future warming already locked into the climate system means that further degradation is inevitable. This is the sobering calculus of climate change.
Humanity has all the facts in front of us. Earth is in an uncharted time of very rapid change. If we don't respond, we will lose the Great Barrier Reef and corals across the world's oceans.

https://theconversation.com/humanity-is-failing-official-report-war...

Part 2

Paper types ranked by likelihood of paper cuts

Via testing with a skin stand-in, a trio of physicists has ranked the types of paper that are the most likely to cause a paper cut. In an article published in Physical Review E, they tested the cutting ability and circumstances involved in paper cuts to compile their rankings.

Paper cuts occur through the handling of paper products. In addition to the nuisance factor due to the sudden flow of blood, there is also often a great deal of pain involved. In this new effort, the researchers noted that most research done on the topic revolves around infection factors. They chose instead to focus on the types of paper most likely to cause a cut, thereby allowing paper users a means to reduce their chances of an injury.

To test the cutting ability of different types of paper, the researchers used ballistics gelatin as a stand-in for skin. They then attempted to cut the gelatin using multiple types of paper. They noted the sturdiness and thickness of the paper, and the angles that were involved when cutting occurred.

The research team found that paper that was the most thin was unlikely to cause a cut because it tended to buckle instead. Also, thick paper rarely led to a cut because its surface was spread over too large an area. That left paper that is neither too thick nor too thin, like the kind that is used in newspapers or dot-matrix printers—the two types tied for the title "Most likely to cut skin."

Other culprits were Post-It notes, printed magazines and office paper. Some that were less likely to cut include tissue and photo paper. They noted that to cause cuts, the paper had to be angled slightly.

The researchers also noted that some papers, such as those used in dot-matrix printers, are exceptionally good at cutting. They proved this to be the case by connecting a small piece of it to a scalpel and using the results as a "papermachete." They found their little knife was capable of slicing through vegetable skin and even some meats.

 Sif Fink Arnbjerg-Nielsen et al, Competition between slicing and buckling underlies the erratic nature of paper cuts, Physical Review E (2024). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevE.110.025003

The physics of paper cuts. Credit: Physical Review E (2024). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevE.110.025003

How much microplastic are you drinking? New tool can tell you in minutes

Micro- and nanoplastics are in our food, water and the air we breathe. They are showing up in our bodies, from testicles to brain matter. Now,  researchers have developed a low-cost, portable tool to accurately measure plastic released from everyday sources like disposable cups and water bottles.

The device, paired with an app, uses fluorescent labeling to detect plastic particles ranging from 50 nanometers to 10 microns in size—too small to be detected by the naked eye—and delivers results in minutes.

The method and findings are detailed in ACS Sensors.

The breakdown of larger plastic pieces into microplastics and nanoplastics presents significant threats to food systems, ecosystems, and human health.

This new technique allows quick, cheap detection of these plastics, which could help protect our health and ecosystems.

Nano and microplastics are byproducts of degrading plastic materials such as lunchboxes, cups and utensils. As very small particles with a large surface area, nanoplastics are particularly concerning to human health due to their increased ability to absorb toxins and penetrate biological barriers within the human body.

Detecting these plastics typically requires skilled personnel and expensive equipment.

They created a small, biodegradable, 3D-printed box containing a wireless digital microscope, green LED light and an excitation filter. To measure the plastics, they customized MATLAB software with machine-learning algorithms and combined it with image capture software.

The result is a portable tool that works with a smartphone or other mobile device to reveal the number of plastic particles in a sample. The tool only needs a tiny liquid sample—less than a drop of water—and makes the plastic particles glow under the green LED light in the microscope to visualize and measure them. The results are easy to understand, whether by a technician in a food processing lab or just someone curious about their morning cup of coffee.

To reduce plastic ingestion, it is important to consider avoiding petroleum-based plastic products by opting for alternatives like glass or stainless steel for food containers. The development of biodegradable packaging materials is also important for replacing traditional plastics and moving towards a more sustainable world, say the researchers.

Haoxin Ye et al, Cost-Effective and Wireless Portable Device for Rapid and Sensitive Quantification of Micro/Nanoplastics, ACS Sensors (2024). DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.4c00957

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'Alarming' rise in deadly lightning strikes in India: scientists

Climate change is fueling an alarming increase in deadly lightning strikes in India, killing nearly 1,900 people a year in the world's most populous country, scientists warn.

Lightning caused a staggering 101,309 deaths between 1967 and 2020, with a sharp increase between 2010 and 2020, a team of researchers say.

The results indicate a steady increase in lightning activity in India, positioning it as a major killer among climate change-induced natural disasters.

While the report looked at data on deaths, not the number of strikes, it said "lightning activity in India is becoming increasingly unpredictable".

Data showed that the average annual fatalities per Indian state rose from 38 in the period 1967 to 2002, to 61 from 2003 to 2020 -- a period when the country's population has also rapidly grown to 1.4 billion people.

Lightning strikes are common in India during the June-September monsoon rains, which is crucial to replenishing regional water supplies.

But scientists say their frequency is increasing due to rising global temperatures, unleashing a cascade of extreme weather events. Higher air temperatures create more water vapour, which after it cools at altitude, creates electric charges that spark lightning.

The high number of fatalities in India is also due to ineffective early warning systems and a lack of awareness of how to reduce the risk, the report added, published in the international journal of Environment, Development and Sustainability.

Mass fatalities from a single strike are common, such as when farmers shelter in groups from lashing rain under a tree.

The report said the data on recorded deaths from lightning indicates "an increasing trend, with the last two decades showing the highest increase", calling it "an alarming development". The "rising trend of extreme climate conditions is likely to exacerbate the situation", it added, with a "pressing need" for policy changes to mitigate the impact.

Source: Various news agencies

Anthropocene: Why it matters even without a formal geological definition

For the last seven decades, Earth has been operating in unprecedented ways, leading many researchers to argue that we have entered a new geological epoch known as the Anthropocene.

While it may not have been formally accepted onto the geological time scale, the Anthropocene is real and its effects have drastically and irrevocably changed the living conditions on our planet. It should therefore be treated as a de facto new epoch of Earth's history, say some experts.

That argument is at the crux of an article published in the journal Nature .

The article was also co-signed by more than 50 other researchers representing many different disciplines and institutes from around the world. It summarizes the evidence of massive physical, chemical and biological change on the planet, including the rapidly warming climate.

For many thousands of years, large human populations coexisted with relatively stable planetary conditions and left abundant traces of their existence and their environmental impacts.

But the planet is now sharply different, and the significance of these changes extends far beyond the Earth sciences to affect the social sciences, the humanities and arts—and to form a now-permanent context for the work of planners and decision-makers.

The authors emphasize that it makes sense to precisely delimit the beginning of the Anthropocene at 1952. That year not only marks the prominent upturn of artificial radionuclide fallout around the Earth from hydrogen bomb tests, they note, but closely coincides with many other changes, such as the appearance of plastics and many other novel compounds and the rapid growth of greenhouse gases, as well as widespread social, economic and political changes as the postwar world entered a period of unprecedented growth.

Wide acceptance of such a definition would make for more precise analysis of the many phenomena associated with the Anthropocene, and allow us to communicate clearly, say these experts.

The Anthropocene may have been rejected by the International Commission on Stratigraphy—for now. But it is all too alive in the real world, and we should recognize that.

Jan Zalasiewicz et al, The meaning of the Anthropocene: why it matters even without a formal geological definition, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/d41586-024-02712-y

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Lack of pollinators limits worldwide food production

A team of researchers  has analyzed crop yields of more than 1,500 fields on six continents, and found that production worldwide of important, nutritionally dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes is being limited by a lack of pollinators.

The results, detailed in Nature Ecology & Evolution, showed that across diverse crops and locations, one-third to two-thirds of farms contain fields that aren't producing at the levels they should be due to a lack of pollinators. The phenomenon of a low crop yield because of insufficient visits by insects is known as 'pollinator limitation'.

The study is especially timely given recent concern about global declines in insect abundance.

The scientists reached their conclusions by conducting a statistical analysis of more than 200,000 "bee visitations" to crop flowers, contained within one of the most comprehensive databases on crop pollination in the world.

The open-source database incorporates three decades of field observations of bees and other pollinators visiting plants.

The recent  study doesn't apply to major food crops, such as rice and wheat, which don't require pollinators to reproduce. But pollination by bees and other animals is critical to the proliferation of what Scientists describe as "nutrient-dense and interesting foods that we like and are culturally relevant," such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes.

Pollination is the process of transferring pollen from the male part of a flower to the female part, which allows a plant to become fertilized and produce seeds, fruits and young plants. Pollen can be moved by wind, water or pollinators such as honeybees and wild bees and other insects and other animals, such as bats.

Pollinators support the reproduction of about 88% of the world's flowering plants and 76% of the leading global food crops, according to previous research by this group and also other scientists.

Part 1

Bees are generally considered the most effective pollinators because Rutgers scientists identified that blueberry, coffee and apple crops were most frequently affected by pollinator limitations. They visit more flowers and carry more pollen than other insects.

Researchers found yield deficits for 25 unique crops and in 85% of the countries evaluated.

On the bright side, scientists think current yield deficits could be remediated with realistic increases in pollinator visitation across individual crop fields. The study revealed in some cases an adequate number of bees were already visiting some fields.

If field managers could improve consistency across high- and low-yield fields, much of the observed yield problems could be addressed.
The findings are significant because crop yields, which measure the amount of crops grown per unit area of land, are relevant to assessing the adequacy of the world's food supply relative to its population.

Katherine J. Turo et al, Insufficient pollinator visitation often limits yield in crop systems worldwide, Nature Ecology & Evolution (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41559-024-02460-2

Part 2

Pregnancy after sterilization turns out to be surprisingly common

Tubal sterilization is thought to be a permanent form of birth control and is the most common method of contraception in several parts of the world. But a new study reports that tubal surgery fails often enough that some other forms of birth control are usually more effective.

The authors found that 3–5% of women in the  US who had their tubes tied later reported an unplanned pregnancy. This failure rate led the authors to suggest that patients who really want to avoid future pregnancy should instead use a contraceptive arm implant or intrauterine device (IUD).

The paper appears August 27 in NEJM Evidence.

Schwarz, E. B. et al. Pregnancy after Tubal Sterilization in the United States, 2002 to 2015, NEJM Evidence (2024). DOI: 10.1056/EVIDoa2400023. evidence.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/EVIDoa2400023

Menopause potentially linked to adverse cardiovascular health through blood fat profile changes

New research presented at the ESC Congress 2024 in London, UK (30 August—2 September) shows that women in the menopause transition period show changes in their blood cholesterol profiles which could have an adverse impact on their cardiovascular health.

There is an increase in 'bad' low-density type lipoprotein (LDL) particles and a decrease in 'good' high-density lipoprotein particles (HDL) that takes place during and after the menopause transition. Taken together, these changes suggest that menopause is associated with a transition to a higher-risk lipoprotein profile that could be more likely to cause cardiovascular disease, such as coronary artery disease.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the biggest killer of women, despite the misconception that CVD is a "man's disease"—40% of all deaths in women are from CVD. While women develop cardiovascular disease (CVD) approximately ten years later than men, risk of CVD in women rises after menopause.

In the present study, the researchers found that found that menopause is associated with adverse changes in lipoprotein profiles, with the most pronounced changes found to be in increases in 'bad' LDL-particles and subfractions observed for peri-menopausal women. When looked at together, these changes could help explain the increase of cardiovascular disease in post-menopausal women and help determine if earlier interventions are warranted.

 esc365.escardio.org/ESC-Congress/sessions/11918

EEE, West Nile, malaria: Know the difference between these mosquito-borne diseases

The world's deadliest animal can be squashed flat with a quick slap: It's the mosquito.

The buzzing insects are more than annoying—they spread disease. When they bite and drink blood from a person or animal they can pick up viruses or germs too. If they can go on to bite someone or something else, they deposit the germ right under the skin.

The best way to avoid getting sick is of course to avoid getting bitten, which means taking steps like using repellent, wearing clothing with long sleeves and long pants and staying indoors when the mosquitoes are out. Local health departments also work to reduce mosquito numbers, including spraying neighborhoods with insecticide.

Here's a look at some common—and not so common—mosquito-borne diseases.

Part 1

Eastern equine encephalitis

Most people infected with eastern equine encephalitis don't develop symptoms, but some can come down with fever or swelling of the brain and about one third of people infected die.

 It is caused by a virus and is not very common around the world. The virus typically spreads in certain swamps.

West Nile virus

About 2 in 10 people infected with West Nile virus develop symptoms, which can include fever and swelling of the brain. About 1 in 10 people who develop severe symptoms die. 

Malaria

Malaria infected nearly 250 million people globally in 2022 and killed more than 600,000, mostly children. It is caused by a parasite carried by mosquitoes and mainly infects people in tropical regions, especially Africa. A vaccination campaign has been launched in recent months that health officials hope will help reduce cases and deaths.

Dengue

Also known as "break-bone fever" because it can be so painful, dengue is becoming more common. The World Health Organization says that about half the world's population is at risk of getting the disease, and there are 100 million to 400 million infections every year. Not everyone gets symptoms, which can include fever, severe headaches and pain in the muscles and joints.

Source: News agencies

Part 2

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How mindset could affect the body's response to vaccination

In a recent study, researchers found that beliefs and assumptions people have about COVID-19 vaccines seemed to influence their vaccination experience—including side effects and, in some cases, immune response.

While most people can appreciate that vaccination is an amazing achievement, their enthusiasm might falter when it comes time to schedule and receive their own. And new research suggests that might influence how the vaccine affects them.

Researchers studied the effects of different types of positive and negative mindsets regarding the COVID-19 vaccine.

Their work, published in the journal Brain, Behavior & Immunity—Health, suggests that a positive mindset is associated with more positive outcomes, such as less stress and side effects, better mood, and possibly even better immune response.

*Details of the findings include: All positive vaccine-related mindsets predict lower anxiety on the day of the appointment, and lower stress and sadness—and more happiness—in the days around vaccination.

*A positive mindset about the efficacy of the vaccine and how the body will respond to vaccination were linked to fewer negative physical side effects.

*The vaccine mindset that side effects indicate "the vaccine is working" was associated with better immune response—specifically, higher antibodies six months later.

Many people will be surprised by these findings, but they shouldn't be," said the authors. Our brains are connected to every physiological system in our bodies, and we know from decades of previous research on placebo effects and psychoneuroimmunology that our mindsets can influence physiological outcomes, including the immune system.

Darwin A. Guevarra et al, Examining the association of vaccine-related mindsets and post-vaccination antibody response, side effects, and affective outcomes, Brain, Behavior, & Immunity - Health (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2024.100818

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Some bats are surviving and thriving with blood sugar levels that would be lethal for other mammals

Humans must regulate blood sugar concentrations to stay healthy and to fuel our cells. Too little or too much can cause serious health complications, and high blood sugar is a hallmark of the metabolic condition, diabetes. New research  may enable potential solutions to metabolic disease by turning to evolution and to bats.

Published in Nature Ecology and Evolution, the study reports the highest naturally occurring blood sugar concentrations in mammals ever observed, a finding that suggests bats have evolved strategies to survive, and even thrive, with this extreme trait.

This new study  reports blood sugar levels that are the highest we have ever seen in nature—what would be lethal, coma-inducing levels for mammals, but not for bats.

Thirty million years ago, the Neotropical leaf-nosed bat survived solely on insects. Since then, these bats have diversified into many different species by changing what they eat. From insects, different lineages now specialize in diets including fruits, nectar, meat, and everything in between—even just blood.

The new study reports the highest naturally occurring blood sugar concentrations in mammals ever observed, a finding that suggests bats have evolved strategies to survive, and even thrive, with this extreme trait. Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research

Part 1

Looking to animals that have existed for millions of years allows us to start to catalog changes that have happened over evolution. What makes Neotropical leaf-nosed bats so unique to study is that this group is comprised of many different species with very diverse diets, making it feasible to find answers about how diet evolves. The hope is that we can extend this understanding to other mammals, including humans, where there may be ways to learn how to better protect our own health.
To uncover how bats diversified their diets, the research team traveled to the jungles of Central America, South America, and the Caribbean to conduct fieldwork over several years. These catch-and-release expeditions were focused on performing glucose tolerance tests—measuring the concentration of sugar in blood—on nearly 200 wild-caught bats across 29 species after a single feeding of one of three types of sugars associated with diets of insects, fruits, or nectar.
They observed various ways sugar is assimilated—absorbed, stored and used in the body—and how this process has become specialized due to different diets.
The mechanism for maintaining blood sugar levels within a narrow, healthy range is called glucose homeostasis, which is typically regulated by the hormone insulin and is what goes awry in diabetes. Different species of leaf-nosed bats reveal a spectrum of adaptations to glucose homeostasis, ranging from changes in intestinal anatomy to genetic alterations for proteins that transport sugar from blood to cells.
Fruit bats have honed their insulin signaling pathway to lower blood sugar. On the other extreme, nectar bats can tolerate high blood glucose levels, similar to what is observed in people with unregulated diabetes. They have evolved a different mechanism, and it does not seem to depend on insulin.
Although precisely how nectar bats are managing glucose is still under investigation, the researchers found potential clues for alternative metabolic strategies for glucose regulation. Bats with sugar-rich diets were observed to have longer portions of their intestines and to have intestinal cells with greater surface areas for absorbing nutrients from food, compared to bats with other diets. In addition, nectar bats, separate from fruit bats, have a continual expression of a gene responsible for sugar transport, a trait also observed in a species of hummingbird.
Part 2

This study establishes extremely important resources for the field.
It provides not only metabolic characteristics of various bat species with different diets, but also their intestinal morphology, and candidate genomic regions and protein structural differences that could be driving dietary adaptations.
The datasets will fuel future research that aims to differentiate mammalian dietary differences and could progress the development of novel therapeutics for a variety of metabolic diseases in humans.

Oh yes, if that happens, you can eat your favourite sweets or ice creams without thinking about any health consequences!

Sugar assimilation underlying dietary evolution of Neotropical bats, Nature Ecology & Evolution (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41559-024-02485-7

Part 3

Scientists discover a  global electric field on Earth

Using observations from a NASA suborbital rocket, an international team of scientists, for the first time, has successfully measured a planet-wide electric field thought to be as fundamental to Earth as its gravity and magnetic fields.

Known as the ambipolar electric field, scientists first hypothesized over 60 years ago that it drove how our planet's atmosphere can escape above Earth's North and South Poles. Measurements from the rocket, NASA's Endurance mission, have confirmed the existence of the ambipolar field and quantified its strength, revealing its role in driving atmospheric escape and shaping our ionosphere—a layer of the upper atmosphere—more broadly.

Understanding the complex movements and evolution of our planet's atmosphere provides clues not only to the history of Earth but also gives us insight into the mysteries of other planets and determining which ones might be hospitable to life. A research paper on this topic is published in the journal Nature.

Part 1

Since the late 1960s, spacecraft flying over Earth's poles have detected a stream of particles flowing from our atmosphere into space. Theorists predicted this outflow, which they dubbed the "polar wind," spurring research to understand its causes.

Some amount of outflow from our atmosphere was expected. Intense, unfiltered sunlight should cause some particles from our air to escape into space, like steam evaporating from a pot of water. But the observed polar wind was more mysterious. Many particles within it were cold, with no signs they had been heated—yet they were traveling at supersonic speeds.

Something had to be drawing these particles out of the atmosphere.

Scientists suspected that a yet-to-be-discovered electric field could be at work.

The hypothesized electric field, generated at the subatomic scale, was expected to be incredibly weak, with its effects felt only over hundreds of miles. For decades, detecting it was beyond the limits of existing technology. In 2016, researchers got to work inventing a new instrument they thought was up to the task of measuring Earth's ambipolar field.

The team's instruments and ideas were best suited for a suborbital rocket flight launched from the Arctic. In a nod to the ship that carried Ernest Shackleton on his famous 1914 voyage to Antarctica, the team named their mission Endurance. The scientists set a course for Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago just a few hundred miles from the North Pole and home to the northernmost rocket range in the world.

Svalbard is the only rocket range in the world where you can fly through the polar wind and make the measurements that 're needed.

On May 11, 2022, Endurance launched and reached an altitude of 477.23 miles (768.03 kilometers), splashing down 19 minutes later in the Greenland Sea. Across the 322-mile altitude range where it collected data, Endurance measured a change in electric potential of only 0.55 volts.

A half a volt is almost nothing—it's only about as strong as a watch battery. But that's just the right amount to explain the polar wind.

Hydrogen ions, the most abundant type of particle in the polar wind, experience an outward force from this field 10.6 times stronger than gravity.

"That's more than enough to counter gravity—in fact, it's enough to launch them upwards into space at supersonic speeds.

Heavier particles also get a boost. Oxygen ions at that same altitude, immersed in this half-a-volt field, weigh half as much. In general, the team found that the ambipolar field increases what's known as the "scale height" of the ionosphere by 271%, meaning the ionosphere remains denser to greater heights than it would be without it.

It's like this conveyor belt , lifting the atmosphere up into space.

Endurance's discovery has opened many new paths for exploration. The ambipolar field, as a fundamental energy field of our planet alongside gravity and magnetism, may have continuously shaped the evolution of our atmosphere in ways we can now begin to explore. Because it's created by the internal dynamics of an atmosphere, similar electric fields are expected to exist on other planets, including Venus and Mars.

Any planet with an atmosphere should have an ambipolar field. Now that we've finally measured it, we can begin learning how it's shaped our planet as well as others over time.

Glyn A. Collinson et al, Earth's ambipolar electrostatic field and its role in ion escape to space, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07480-3

Part 2

 New brain mechanism uncovered

Researchers have discovered how two brain areas, the neocortex and the thalamus, work together to detect discrepancies between what animals expect from their environment and actual events. These prediction errors are implemented by selective boosting of unexpected sensory information. These findings enhance our understanding of predictive processing in the brain and could offer insights into how brain circuits are altered in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs).

The research, published in Nature, outlines how scientists at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre at UCL studied mice in a virtual reality environment to take us a step closer to understanding both the nature of prediction error signals in the brain as well as the mechanisms by which they arise.

Our brains constantly predict what to expect in the world around us and the consequences of our actions. When these predictions turn out wrong, this causes strong activation of different brain areas, and such prediction error signals are important for helping us learn from our mistakes and update our predictions. But despite their importance, surprisingly little is known about the neural circuit mechanisms responsible for their implementation in the brain.

To study how the brain processes expected and unexpected events, the researchers placed mice in a virtual reality environment where they could navigate along a familiar corridor to get to a reward. The virtual environment enabled the team to precisely control visual input and introduce unexpected images on the walls. By using a technique called two-photon calcium imaging, the researchers were able to record the neural activity of many individual neurons in the primary visual cortex, the first area in our neocortex to receive visual information from the eyes.

Previous theories proposed that prediction error signals encode how the actual visual input is different from expectations, but surprisingly the present study found no experimental evidence for this. Instead, it was discovered that the brain boosts the responses of neurons that have the strongest preference for the unexpected visual input.

The error signal we observe is a consequence of this selective amplification of visual information. This implies that our brain detects discrepancies between predictions and actual inputs to make unexpected events more salient.

To understand how the brain generates this amplification of the unexpected sensory input in the visual cortex, the team used a technique called optogenetics to inactivate or activate different groups of neurons. They found two groups of neurons that were important for causing the prediction error signal in the visual cortex: vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP)-expressing inhibitory interneurons in V1 and a thalamic brain region called the pulvinar, which integrates information from many neocortical and subcortical areas and is strongly connected to V1.

Part 1

But the researchers found that these two groups of neurons interact in a surprising way.

This work revealed that VIP neurons and pulvinar act synergistically together. VIP neurons act like a switchboard: When they are off, the pulvinar suppresses activity in the neocortex, but when VIP neurons are on, the pulvinar can strongly and selectively boost sensory responses in the neocortex. The cooperative interaction of these two pathways thus mediates the sensory prediction error signals in the visual cortex.

Sonja Hofer, Cooperative thalamocortical circuit mechanism for sensory prediction errors, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07851-w. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07851-w

Part 2

Researchers take inspiration from viruses to improve delivery of nucleic acid-based therapies to cancer cells

Researchers are developing a patent-pending platform technology that mimics the dual-layer structure of viruses to deliver nucleic acid (NA)-based therapies to targeted cancer cells.

 The carrier system is called LENN. 

LENN includes two protective layers. The inner shell condenses the nucleic acid; the outer shell protects it from the immune system so it can circulate freely and target cancer cells. The researchers are mimicking the strategies of viral particles that have been doing this effectively for millions of years.

The data shows that this agile nanocarrier is flexible in its targeting ability, cargo size and disassembly kinetics. It provides an alternative route for nucleic acid delivery using a biomanufacturable, biodegradable, biocompatible and highly tunable vehicle capable of targeting a variety of cells depending on their tumor-specific surface markers.

Nucleic acid-based therapies are revolutionizing biomedical research through their ability to control cellular functions at the genetic level. Therapies comprising several constructs are being explored to expand the druggable sites of the human genome.

Aayush Aayush et al, Development of an Elastin-like Polypeptide-Based Nucleic Acid Delivery System Targeted to EGFR+ Bladder Cancer Cells Using a Layer-by-Layer Approach, Biomacromolecules (2024). DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00165

Dark matter, dark matter, where are you?

New results from the world's most sensitive dark matter detector narrow down its characteristics, edging closer to unraveling one of the biggest mysteries of the universe.

LZ is intricately and innovatively designed to find direct evidence of dark matter—a mysterious invisible substance thought to make up most of the mass of the universe. Dark matter is particularly challenging to detect, as it does not emit or absorb light or any other form of radiation.

The LZ detector tries to capture the very rare and very faint interactions between dark matter and its 7-tonne liquid xenon target. To do this, LZ must be carefully and delicately calibrated and any background noise removed so the experiment can be perfectly tuned to observe these interactions.
These theorized elementary particles interact with gravity, which confirms the existence of dark matter in the first place, and possibly through a new weak interaction too.

This means WIMPs are expected to collide with ordinary matter—albeit very rarely and very faintly. This is why very quiet and very sensitive particle detectors are needed for WIMP detection.
At the center of the experiment is a large liquid xenon particle detector maintained at around -110oC, surrounded by photo-sensors. If a WIMP interacts with a xenon atom, a tiny amount of light should be emitted and the sensors will capture it. But in order to see these rare interactions, the team had to carefully remove as much as possible background radiation from the detector materials first.

But this is not enough and explains why LZ is operating around a mile underground. This shields it from cosmic rays, which bombard experiments at the surface of the earth. The detector and its cryostat sit inside a huge water tank to protect the experiment from particles and radiation coming from the laboratory walls.
For dark matter searches it is of vital importance to suppress any sources of background radiation, in particular neutrons and gamma rays. LZs veto detectors enable us to reject such processes and to gain the sensitivity to extremely rare dark matter interactions.

"Finally, LZ made sure that the liquid xenon itself is as pure as possible by carefully removing a key contaminant through a complex years-long process. Many complex systems had to come together for LZ to work, and these results show they are performing in seamless harmony.

Source: https://indico.uchicago.edu/event/427/overview

Part 2

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Why are cacti so diverse?

Cacti are among the most diverse plants, from the giant saguaro cactus that can grow up to 18 meters in height, all the way down to the tiny button cactus which is a few centimeters tall. A new study has shed light on the mystery as to why there are so many different types.

The work is published in the journal Nature Communications.

Researchers pieced together all known published data on cacti to better understand the driving forces behind the huge diversity of cacti species found today and built the biggest ever evolutionary tree for cacti using thousands of DNA sequences.

The team looked at a large number of biological variables, such as plant size, soil sand content, geographical range, aridity and diurnal temperature range (the minimum and maximum temperatures experienced over 24 hours). They correlated this data with biodiversity and rates of evolution of new species.

The new study found that temperature range during the day, sand content in the soil and seasonal changes are the biggest drivers of evolution in cacti.

 Jamie B. Thompson et al, Identifying the multiple drivers of cactus diversification, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51666-2

Preterm delivery by cesarean section is a growing tendency in some parts of the world and entails risks for babies, study shows

In India people choose delivery dates based on astrologers' advice. 'Auspicious days', 'good muhurths' are making them go for C-section pre-term deliveries. 

Both C-section and preterm deliveries are bad says science!

Now Brazilian researchers have investigated the effects of delivery date manipulation to avoid the Carnival holiday. Their findings suggest that Brazilian women are giving birth too early, impairing the health of their babies.

The evidence shows that many cesarean sections scheduled to take place during the Carnival holiday in Brazil are moved up or postponed. Researchers at INSPER, a private higher education and research institution in São Paulo city, investigated the effects of this manipulation of birth timing on infant health.

Their findings are reported in an article published in the journal Health Economics.

According to the article, postponement leads to an increase in gestational age and a reduction in neonatal mortality, while earlier delivery than scheduled entails a reduction in gestational age and birth weight, especially in high-risk pregnancies and at the lower end of the birth weight distribution. In net terms, the Carnival holiday increases gestational age by 0.06 days on average and reduces neonatal mortality and early neonatal mortality by 0.30 and 0.26 per 1,000 live births respectively.

study shows that delivery dates are extensively manipulated in the vicinity of the Carnival holiday. This is done by rescheduling C-sections, and mainly involves less vulnerable women with higher levels of schooling.

Part 1

Women with higher levels of educational attainment tend to move delivery up in order to avoid the holiday, she explained, adding that this decision, which prioritizes the convenience of both mother and obstetrician, artificially shortens the pregnancy and may put the baby at risk.

Although the study focused on the Carnival period, Melo believes the tendency to opt for an earlier delivery is general and not confined to holidays.

The WHO recommends at least 39 weeks for a healthy pregnancy.

The authors of the article stress the need for public policy to limit preterm deliveries without medical justification in order to minimize the risks associated with premature birth and low birth weight.

Footnotes: 

1. https://www.newindianexpress.com/hyderabad/2017/Feb/11/c-sections-f...(measure%20of%20time).

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Carolina Melo et al, The effect of birth timing manipulation around carnival on birth indicators in Brazil, Health Economics (2024). DOI: 10.1002/hec.4858

Part 2

Social media skin tips debunked

With an endless feed of influencers, doctors and everyday people giving skincare advice, it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction. Dermatologists now are breaking down some of the most prominent social media skincare claims that can be simply ineffective or even dangerous.

Social media often encourages short, catchy tips rather than comprehensive, personalized advice. Even if an account is run by a board-certified dermatologist, social media advice can sometimes be overly simplified or generalized. Individual skin needs and conditions vary greatly, and what works for one person might not be suitable for another, say these experts.

Claim 1:  All adolescents need a product-intensive skincare regimen

With social media accessible to all ages, it is easy to find social media content directed at children and teens that make it seem like an intensive skin regimen is necessary for kids. However, using anti-aging products at a young age might be unnecessary and could potentially irritate kids' skin. Younger skin typically does not require advanced treatments, and overuse of certain products can disrupt its natural balance.

Children may benefit from using products formulated for sensitive skin, which are free from harsh chemicals and fragrances, and some children may require products specifically designed to address acne.

A recommended skincare routine is the same as one for most adults—a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and oil followed by a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and finished with a daily use of sunscreen to protect from ultraviolet (UV) damage.

Claim: You can skip sunscreen

Baylor dermatologists stress that skipping sunscreen is not advisable. Sunscreens are defined by whether they have physical or chemical agents to protect against UV rays, which can lead to skin cancer.

Physical sunscreens, either zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, act as a physical barrier that reflects and scatters UV rays away from the skin, while chemical sunscreens contain carbon-based compounds such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, octinoxate and others to absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin.

Some patients may have sensitive skin that could be agitated by certain sunscreens or reservations about the effects of chemical sunscreen on the skin; however, Visiting a board-certified dermatologist will help patients find the right sunscreen and answer questions patients may have about sunscreens.

Part1

Claim: Darker skin means no sunburn
While melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, provides some natural protection against harmful rays, it is not a complete barrier against UV damage. Populations with darker skin can and do get sunburned, though it may take longer exposure to the sun compared to those with lighter skin. Although sunburn on darker skin might not always be as visibly red, a person will still experience pain and peeling. If left unprotected, people with darker skin will still experience premature aging, sunburn and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Claim: Toothpaste clears up acne
It is suggested that toothpaste can dry up pimples and other acne spots and make them disappear; however, it is not a recommended or effective treatment. Different toothpastes contain different types of ingredients that can irritate the skin, cause dryness and potentially make acne worse. But sticking to over-the-counter treatments that contain acne-fighting ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid that are safer and more effective.
Claim: Hair loss can be stopped or restored with different naturally occurring oils
Hair loss can be caused by numerous diseases, which is why it is important to see a dermatologist to uncover what it may be. There is anecdotal support that some oils can help with hair health, but there's limited scientific evidence backing their effectiveness for significant hair regrowth.
In one study, rosemary oil was shown to be effective in promoting hair growth after six months of use, and there are studies showing coconut oil can improve brittle hair, but there is limited evidence regarding its impact on hair growth.
Part2

"There is weaker evidence for castor oil improving hair quality by increasing hair luster, and no strong evidence supporting its use for hair growth. Argan oil, or Moroccan oil, also does not have any significant evidence to improve hair growth or quality."

These oils might help with overall scalp health but are not substitutes for proven treatments prescribed by dermatologists.

Hair loss treatment is dictated by the type of hair loss. For the most common type of hair loss, pattern alopecia, or androgenetic alopecia, minoxidil is an over-the-counter topical treatment approved by the FDA for hair regrowth for both men and women. Platelet-rich-plasma can also be performed by dermatologists, which can help in certain hair-loss diseases. Hair transplants are a surgical option for more permanent results.

"Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for hair health.
Practicing stress-reducing activities such as meditation and regular physical activity, as well as getting enough sleep are all important for a healthy scalp. Other important points are avoiding tight hairstyles, and harsh chemicals and treatments that can damage the hair and minimizing the use of heat styling tools like blow dryers, curling irons and straighteners.
Claim: Botox now means younger looking skin later
Botox is a type of neuromodulator that can prevent the formation of wrinkles that form from facial movements by temporarily paralyzing the muscles responsible for these movements. Starting Botox in your 20s might be a preventive measure to reduce the appearance of fine lines later in life; however, it's important to consider the cost, potential side effects and the fact that it's not a permanent solution.

Regular injections will be needed, and the long-term effects of early use are still being studied. Other non-cosmetic uses for Botox can be to treat medical conditions such as chronic migraines or excessive sweating.

Social media trends are endless. The key to healthy skin is consistency, simplicity and working with a dermatologist who can provide expert advice that is specific for your skin needs.

Social media provides immediate access to information and often features visually engaging content. People are drawn to it because it offers convenience and relatability. Navigating social media advice with a critical eye and a focus on evidence-based practices will help you make better-informed decisions about your skin, nail and hair care. Visiting a dermatologist will allow for a proper consultation for skin conditions.
Source: Baylor College of Medicine

Part3

Researchers map 50,000 of DNA's mysterious 'knots' in the human genome

Researchers have mapped 50,000 of DNA's mysterious "knots" in the human genome. The innovative study of DNA's hidden structures may open up new approaches for treatment and diagnosis of diseases, including cancer.

DNA is well-known for its double helix shape. But the human genome also contains more than 50,000 unusual knot-like DNA structures called i-motifs, researchers  have discovered.

Published recently in The EMBO Journal is the first comprehensive map of these unique DNA structures, shedding light on their potential roles in gene regulation involved in disease.

In a landmark 2018 study, the same  scientists were the first to directly visualize i-motifs inside living human cells using a new antibody tool they developed to recognize and attach to i-motifs. The current research builds on those findings by deploying this antibody to identify i-motif locations across the entire genome.

In this recent study, they mapped more than 50,000 i-motif sites in the human genome that occur in all three of the cell types they examined.

That's a remarkably high number for a DNA structure whose existence in cells was once considered controversial. These findings confirm that i-motifs are not just laboratory curiosities but widespread—and likely to play key roles in genomic function.

I-motifs are DNA structures that differ from the iconic double helix shape. They form when stretches of cytosine letters on the same DNA strand pair with each other, creating a four-stranded, twisted structure protruding from the double helix.

The researchers found that i-motifs are not randomly scattered but concentrated in key functional areas of the genome, including regions that control gene activity.

They discovered that i-motifs are associated with genes that are highly active during specific times in the cell cycle. This suggests they play a dynamic role in regulating gene activity.

They  also found that i-motifs form in the promoter region of oncogenes, for instance the MYC oncogene, which encodes one of cancer's most notorious 'undruggable' targets. This presents an exciting opportunity to target disease-linked genes through the i-motif structure.

The widespread presence of i-motifs near these 'holy grail' sequences involved in hard-to-treat cancers opens up new possibilities for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. It might be possible to design drugs that target i-motifs to influence gene expression, which could expand current treatment options.

Human genomic DNA is widely interspersed with i-motif structures, The EMBO Journal (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s44318-024-00210-5

Fluid 'stickiness' in female reproductive tract could influence fertility

In a study providing important new insights into the development of the female reproductive tract and fertility, researchers have revealed how the thickness of fluid surrounding the egg can impact the cellular structure of the fallopian tube and how well the egg or embryo travels along it.

Published in Nature Communications, the Monash University study sheds light on how variations in the "stickiness" or viscosity of the fluid in the female reproductive tract influence how cells are modified to facilitate the transport of eggs for fertilization.

This study highlights the potential for new treatments that could mimic or modify the natural stickiness of fluids in the reproductive system, offering hope for advancements in fertility therapies.

When the fluid is thicker, the extra resistance causes the cells to change their behavior. Some cells start growing tiny hair-like structures called cilia, which help move things like eggs along the reproductive tract. The thicker the fluid, the more cilia these cells produce, and the more coordinated their movements become. This coordinated beating pattern can facilitate the formation of metachronal waves, essential for the transport of eggs and embryos.

The findings suggest that the natural stickiness of fluid in our bodies could play a key role in processes like fertilization.

The study suggests that the elevated viscosity at certain stages of the menstrual cycle could be a natural mechanism to enhance the formation and coordination of cilia, thus facilitating fertilization. This important aspect of natural fertilization and the role of higher viscosity fluid in the reproductive tract may need more careful evaluation as part of infertility diagnosis and assisted reproduction practices.

It provides insights into how the viscosity (thickness, stickiness) of extracellular fluid influences the behavior of epithelial cells lining the fallopian tubes and could be key to understanding and potentially treating fertility issues.

Melati S. Abdul Halim et al, Fallopian tube rheology regulates epithelial cell differentiation and function to enhance cilia formation and coordination, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51481-9

Nanoplastics put stress on trees and impair photosynthesis

It is well known that more and more plastic waste is ending up in soil and bodies of water. Researchers are particularly concerned about tiny micro- and nano-sized particles. It remains unclear how and to what extent they are able to enter living organisms—and what effect they may have on metabolism.

Researchers now been able to show how trees take up nanoplastics contained in water through their roots. They have demonstrated for the first time that this has a negative effect on photosynthesis. 

The team then added different concentrations of model metal-doped nanoplastics to the water and analyzed the content of plastic particles in different parts of the trees at varying intervals. They also determined photosynthesis activity throughout the study, which has now been published in Environmental Science: Nano.

Within just a few weeks, the researchers were able to detect 1 to 2 milligrams of nanoplastics per gram of plant material in the roots. The plastic content was around 10 to 100 times lower in the trunks, leaves and needles.

There were no significant differences between the two tree species.

The researchers also succeeded in proving that nanoplastics in the leaves and needles can affect important physiological processes. Their measurements showed that the effectiveness of photosynthesis in the wild service tree decreased by a third within two weeks, and in the Norway spruce by about 10% within four weeks—in each case they were compared with trees growing in water without the addition of nanoplastics.

The result indicated that some of the energy from sunlight is no longer used for photosynthesis, but is instead dissipated as heat. This is a typical stress reaction in trees.

Maria Elvira Murazzi et al, Uptake and physiological impacts of nanoplastics in trees with divergent water use strategies, Environmental Science: Nano (2024). DOI: 10.1039/D4EN00286E

How star fish perform Autotomy - the ability of an animal to detach a body part to evade predators.

Researchers have made a discovery about how starfish manage to survive predatory attacks by shedding their own limbs. The team has identified a neurohormone responsible for triggering this remarkable feat of self-preservation. The study is published in the journal Current Biology.

Autotomy, the ability of an animal to detach a body part to evade predators, is a well-known survival strategy in the animal kingdom. While lizards shedding their tails are a familiar example, the mechanisms behind this process remain largely mysterious.

Now, scientists have unveiled a key piece of the puzzle. By studying the common European starfish, Asterias rubens, they identified a neurohormone akin to the human satiety hormone, cholecystokinin (CCK), as a regulator of arm detachment.

Furthermore, the scientists propose that when this neurohormone is released in response to stress, such as a predator attack, it stimulates the contraction of a specialized muscle at the base of the starfish's arm, effectively causing it to break off.

Remarkably, starfish possess incredible regenerative abilities, allowing them to grow back lost limbs over time. Understanding the precise mechanisms behind this process could hold significant implications for regenerative medicine and the development of new treatments for limb injuries.

Discovery of a neuropeptide that acts as an autotomy-promoting factor, Current Biology (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.08.003. www.cell.com/current-biology/f … 0960-9822(24)01079-0

Scientists discover how the body's killer cells attack cancer

Scientists are on the verge of a cancer breakthrough after working out how the body's immune system targets cells devastated by the disease.

A new study has discovered that our natural killer cells, from the immune system which protect against disease and infections, instinctively recognize and attack a protein that drives cancer growth. The experts say that by hijacking this protein, known as XPO1, they may be able to activate more killer cells to destroy the disease.

These findings actually show how our body's immune system recognizes and attacks these cancer cells.

Killer cells are an emerging form of immunotherapy that shows huge promise. They don't attack healthy tissue in the way chemotherapy and other immunotherapies do, so are safer and have less side-effects than traditional forms of cancer treatment.

The XPO1 protein examined by the scientists is essential for normal cell function. However, in many cancers, it becomes overactive and allows malignant cells to multiply unchecked. The scientists found that a peptide—short chains of amino acids—derived from the XPO1 protein attracted the natural killer cells. This, they say, triggers the body's immune response against the cancerous cells.

Patients with cancer who had both active killer cells and high levels of XPO1 had significantly better survival rates. This holds true for a range of cancers including those with higher rates of death such as liver cancer, which has an average survival rate of only 18 months. As well as liver cancer, killer cell treatment in the future could be used to treat head and neck cancers, endometrial, bladder or breast cancer.

Matthew D. Blunt et al, The nuclear export protein XPO1 provides a peptide ligand for natural killer cells, Science Advances (2024). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ado6566

Women with endometriosis at greater associated risk of heart attack and stroke, research finds

According to research presented at ESC Congress 2024, women with endometriosis have a 20% greater risk of significant cardiac outcomes compared with women without endometriosis.

The study used Danish nationwide registries of all women with a diagnosis of endometriosis between 1977 and 2021. They were matched with women from the background population without endometriosis in a 1:4 ratio based on year of birth. The primary outcome was a composite of acute myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke. The secondary outcomes were the individual components of the primary outcome, as well as arrhythmias, heart failure and mortality.

There were 60,508 women with endometriosis and 242,032 matched controls included in the analysis (median age, 37.3 years) who were followed for a median of 16 years and a maximum of 45 years.

Women with endometriosis had around a 20% increased risk of the composite endpoint of acute myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke compared with those without endometriosis (unadjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.18; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.14−1.23; adjusted HR 1.15; 95% CI 1.11−1.20). The 40-year cumulative incidence of the composite of acute myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke was 17.5% (95% CI 16.6−18.2%) and 15.3% (95% CI 15.0−15.7%) in women with and without endometriosis, respectively (p<0.0001).

When this was broken down to the individual components, women with endometriosis had around a 20% increased risk of ischemic stroke (adjusted HR 1.18; 95% CI 1.12−1.23) and around 35% increased risk of acute myocardial infarction (adjusted HR 1.35; 95% CI 1.31−1.40) compared with those without endometriosis. Moreover, women with endometriosis also had increased risk of arrhythmias (adjusted HR 1.21; 95% CI 1.17−1.25) and heart failure (adjusted HR 1.11; 95% CI 1.05−1.18) compared with those without endometriosis.

Growing evidence suggests there is a close relationship between endometriosis and the cardiovascular system and that they may share common disease pathways. 

Researchers suggest that women with endometriosis undergo CVD risk assessment, and it is now time for female-specific risk factors—such as endometriosis, but also gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia—to be considered in cardiovascular risk prediction models. 

Havers-Borgersen, E. Endometriosis, a prevalent disease, is associated with significant cardiac disease, esc365.escardio.org/ESC-Congress/sessions/11951

Trouble with trembling hands originates in the brain: Research IDs genetic variations associated with essential tremor

New research by the National Neuroscience Institute (NNI) of Singapore has identified for the first time how gene variations cause changes in the brain that are linked to essential tremor—a common condition that causes uncontrollable shaking of the hands, such as when writing or holding items.

Essential tremor is one of the most common movement disorders, affecting more than 60 million people worldwide. More than half of the total diagnosed cases have a family history of tremor, and those with a parent or sibling with essential tremor are nearly five times more likely to have the condition.

Hand tremor affects both the young and the old. It is not only socially embarrassing but impacts one's quality of life. Some patients also develop voice and head tremor. While some medical conditions can cause tremors, scientists are still trying to understand the underlying mechanism. 

The NNI study, which was published in the journal Movement Disorders, used brain MRI scans and genetic data of more than 33 000 adults to identify genetic variations associated with essential tremor and their links with structural changes in the brain.

The team identified genes related to differences in specific parts of the brain involved in tremor. For example, there is a specific set of genes that are related to a thinner cortex (outer region of the brain) and a smaller cerebellum (hind brain), the part of the brain involved in balance and movement.

The study also identified how these genetic variations affect the brain at the cellular pathway level, revealing new potential drug targets to treat the condition.

Normally, the body is able to dispose of faulty proteins, but scientists found that this 'quality control' system is faulty in tremor-related parts of the brain. This may affect cell function and disrupt the flow of messages along a key neural pathway between the cerebellum, thalamus and motor cortex, and result in uncontrollable shaking of the hands.

Thomas Welton et al, Association of Gene Expression and Tremor Network Structure, Movement Disorders (2024). DOI: 10.1002/mds.29831

The physics of fish hearing

Computer Scientists  show evidence That Heat Destroys Quantum Entanglement

Scientists discover a new cardiovascular risk factor and identify a drug able to reduce its effects

To the known risk factors for cardiovascular disease—high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, overweight and obesity, smoking, and physical inactivity—a new one has to be added, clonal hematopoiesis. This condition is triggered by acquired mutations in blood stem cells and was already known to be associated with an elevated cardiovascular risk.

However, until now it was uncertain if clonal hematopoiesis was a cause or consequence of cardiovascular disease.

Now, a new study published in Nature Medicine and carried out by researchers at the Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC) resolves this critical debate by establishing clonal hematopoiesis as a new risk factor for atherosclerosis—the formation of lesions in the arterial wall that underlies most cardiovascular disorders.

In a second study, published in the European Heart Journal, the CNIC scientists propose the ancient medication colchicine as the central plank of personalized strategies to alleviate the effects of clonal hematopoiesis associated with acquired mutations in the TET2 gene. The results of these important studies were presented at the European Society of Cardiology meeting in London, UK.

An adult person produces hundreds of thousands of blood cells every day. This high rate of cell division unavoidably entails the accumulation of DNA mutations in the dividing cells. These mutations are known as somatic mutations, and are acquired, not inherited.

Although most somatic mutations are innocuous, some give the affected cells a competitive advantage that allows them to expand and progressively accumulate, generating clonal populations of mutated blood cells, a phenomenon known as clonal hematopoiesis.

These mutations had already been proposed as a possible risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Some earlier studies suggested that somatic mutations linked to clonal hematopoiesis contribute directly to cardiovascular disease and thereby accelerating the development of atherosclerosis. On the other hand, others proposed that it is atherosclerosis that causes clonal hematopoiesis by increasing the proliferation of blood stem cells and thereby generating a higher proportion of mutated blood cells.

The Nature Medicine study clarifies the relationship between clonal hematopoiesis and atherosclerosis through a longitudinal analysis of data from the PESA-CNIC-Santander study. PESA (Progression of Early Subclinical Atherosclerosis) is a prospective study of more than 4000 apparently healthy middle-aged participants who have undergone periodic examinations using advanced imaging technology since 2010 to detect the presence and progression of asymptomatic atherosclerosis. PESA is a collaborative initiative of the CNIC and Santander Bank.

The results of the study clearly demonstrate that participants who had mutations linked to clonal hematopoiesis at the start of the study were more likely to develop atherosclerosis in the following years. On the other hand, the presence and extent of atherosclerosis had no influence on the expansion of mutated blood cells.

"These results indicate that the mutations contribute to the development of atherosclerosis but are not a consequence of it.

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However, it remains possible that other factors, such as genetic profile or lifestyle, might modulate the effects of clonal hematopoiesis, and future studies are planned to examine this possibility.

In the new study published in the European Heart Journal, the CNIC group, in partnership with the team led by Dr. Pradeep Natarajan at the Broad Institute in Boston, show that the adverse effects of TET2 mutations on cardiovascular health can be alleviated by treatment with the anti-inflammatory drug colchicine.

The  team demonstrated that administration of colchicine to animals with TET2 mutations slows the development of atherosclerosis to a rate similar to that seen in non-mutated animals. In parallel, the Broad Institute scientists showed that individuals with TET2 mutations and who had been treated with colchicine for other conditions had a lower risk of myocardial infarction than untreated patients with similar mutations.

Unidirectional association of clonal hematopoiesis with atherosclerosis development, Nature Medicine (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-03213-1

M A Zuriaga et al, Colchicine prevents accelerated atherosclerosis development in TET2-mutant clonal hematopoiesis, European Heart Journal (2023). DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehad655.3264

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