Steven Joseph Reiter studies a variety of topics primarily related to animal biology, environmental science, and medical technology. He investigates how male octopuses recognize female mates and the sensory functions of their mating arm, which guides them in reproductive behaviors. Additionally, he looks at improving the management of coastal ecosystems under threat from human activity and climate change. In another area of research, he explores advanced imaging techniques to map brain cells in mice, with the goal of improving treatments for neurological conditions. His work also includes studying chronic hepatitis D and its genetic factors, and further analyzing the mechanical and enzymatic properties of new corneal tissues that could assist in eye surgeries.
Key findings
In a study of octopuses, researchers found that the male's hectocotylus arm can detect the hormone progesterone, crucial for identifying female mates.
Among 59 patients with chronic hepatitis D in Austria, 62.7% had advanced liver disease, indicating a high burden of illness.
For patients with traumatic brain injuries, the rate of developing cerebral venous sinus thrombosis was 4.8%, which highlights the severity of this complication.
In a study focusing on dental surgery, 17% of patients taking blood thinners experienced bleeding, compared to 10% of those not on these medications.
Corneal tissue from pig sources showed to be 23.5 times stiffer than standard pig tissue, suggesting it could serve as a durable alternative for transplant.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Reiter study animal mating systems?
Yes, he researches how male octopuses use their unique arms to recognize and mate with females, focusing on their sensory functions.
What environmental issues does Dr. Reiter address?
He looks at management strategies for coastal ecosystems that are being affected by various environmental pressures, aiming to balance economic activities with conservation.
Is Dr. Reiter's work relevant to patients with liver diseases?
Absolutely, his research on chronic hepatitis D includes findings that help healthcare providers understand the severity of liver complications in patients.
What techniques has Dr. Reiter developed for brain research?
He has developed advanced imaging techniques for mapping brain cells, which can enhance our understanding of neurological diseases and lead to better treatment options.
Does Dr. Reiter's research impact dental patients?
Yes, his studies on blood thinners have significant implications for patients undergoing dental surgery, as it highlights the need for careful monitoring to prevent bleeding complications.
Publications in plain English
Structured clinical evaluation for rapid identification of temporomandibular joint closed lock.
2026
International journal of oral and maxillofacial surgery
Abboud W, Reiter S, Peleg O, Friedman-Rubin P, SellaTunis T +2 more
Plain English This study focused on a condition called temporomandibular joint (TMJ) closed lock, which makes it hard to open the mouth. Researchers looked at 40 patients and found that three-quarters had tenderness in the affected joint when tested, and the average affected joint was tender in 4 out of 11 tests. This research highlights that a structured clinical evaluation can help doctors quickly identify TMJ closed lock, leading to better diagnosis and faster treatment.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with TMJ issues by enabling quicker and more accurate diagnoses.
Clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes of traumatic cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.
2026
The journal of trauma and acute care surgery
Kapitanski L, Thiyagarajah K, Makedonov I, Berger F, Abdulrehman J +9 more
Plain English The study looked at traumatic cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST), a condition where blood clots form in the veins in the brain due to injury. Out of nearly 19,000 trauma patients, the overall rate of CVST was 0.9%, but it was 2.1% for those with any traumatic brain injury and rose to 4.8% for those with severe brain injuries. Most patients treated with standard blood-thinning medication while in the hospital had good outcomes, with no major complications, highlighting the importance of proper management to improve recovery after serious trauma.
Who this helps: This benefits patients who suffer severe head injuries and their doctors by providing insights on effective treatment.
Chronic hepatitis D in Austria: high burden of cirrhosis and portal hypertension, IL28B C/C as unfavorable factor, increased systemic inflammation in decompensation.
2026
Wiener klinische Wochenschrift
Schwarz M, Schwarz C, Bauer DJM, Panzer M, Hintersteininger M +13 more
Plain English This study examined chronic hepatitis D (CHD) in Austria, focusing on the severity of liver disease and the role of genetic factors. Among 59 patients, 62.7% had advanced liver disease, and those with the IL28B C/C genetic variation experienced worse health outcomes. Patients with CHD had more severe liver issues compared to those with chronic hepatitis B, indicating a significant healthcare challenge.
Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and healthcare providers treating patients with chronic hepatitis D.
Artificial intelligence-driven whole-brain cell mapping with highly multiplexed in situ hybridization.
2026
Neuron
Murakami TC, Xia M, Maeda Y, Yin Y, Barbano PE +5 more
Plain English This study focused on a new technique called mFISH3D, which uses advanced imaging to observe 10 different types of RNA in intact mouse brains. Researchers found that combining this method with artificial intelligence allows for more accurate mapping of brain cells without needing a lot of manual work. This is important because it helps scientists better understand how different cells respond in conditions like diseases, paving the way for improved treatments.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and ultimately patients affected by brain diseases.
Balancing the blue economy and multiple stressor management in marine spatial planning at the land-sea interface.
2026
npj ocean sustainability
Wilson R, Reiter S, Santos CF, Agardy T, Wedding LM
Plain English This study looks at how to better manage coastal ecosystems, which are under threat from various environmental pressures. The researchers propose a new framework that includes eight key steps aimed at balancing economic activities with the need to protect these important areas. Using Massachusetts as an example, their ideas could lead to improved health and sustainability of coastal ecosystems.
Who this helps: This benefits coastal communities, environmental managers, and policymakers.
Villar PS, Jiang H, Shugaeva T, Berdan EL, Kulkarni A +7 more
Plain English Researchers studied how male octopuses recognize female mates using a special arm called the hectocotylus, which helps them deliver sperm. They found that this arm is not only for mating but also has sensory functions that detect a hormone called progesterone, crucial for identifying females. This discovery sheds light on how sensory systems evolve and play a role in the diversity of species.
Who this helps: This helps scientists and researchers studying animal behavior and evolution.
The prevalence of bruxism and oral parafunction activities among Israeli juveniles with autism spectrum disorder: A preliminary study during the COVID-19 pandemic.
2025
Cranio : the journal of craniomandibular practice
Winocur-Arias O, Amitai BC, Winocur E, Shmuly T, Grinstein Koren O +1 more
Plain English Researchers examined how common teeth grinding (bruxism) and other oral habits are among Israeli children and teenagers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) during the COVID-19 pandemic. They found that about 26.7% of younger juveniles (ages 6-12) and 5% of older juveniles (ages 13-21) experienced sleep bruxism, while other oral habits were reported by 43% of all participants. These findings are similar to what's been observed in the general population, and understanding these habits is important for managing dental health in these individuals.
Who this helps: This helps patients with autism, their families, and dental professionals.
Clinical uncertainty in large vessel occlusion ischemic stroke: does automated perfusion imaging make a difference? An intra-rater and inter-rater agreement study.
2025
Journal of neurointerventional surgery
Diestro JDB, Fahed R, Omar AT, Hawkes C, Hendriks EJ +47 more
Plain English This study looked at how using advanced imaging (called perfusion CT) affects doctors' decisions about whether to conduct a specific medical procedure (endovascular thrombectomy or EVT) for patients with certain types of strokes. The researchers found that using perfusion imaging led to changes in recommendations in about 21% of cases, but the overall recommendation rates were nearly the same—1.1% difference—with or without this imaging. Ultimately, although perfusion imaging can change some decisions, it doesn't meaningfully improve the consistency of those decisions among different doctors.
Who this helps: This benefits doctors deciding on treatment options for stroke patients.
Reassessing the role and lifetime of Qin the energy transfer dynamics of chlorophyll.
2025
Chemical science
Keil E, Kumar A, Bäuml L, Reiter S, Thyrhaug E +4 more
Plain English This study looked at how energy moves through chlorophyll, the green pigment in plants that helps them convert sunlight into energy. Researchers found that energy transfers quite quickly between two states of chlorophyll (called B and Q) in about 100 femtoseconds (one femtosecond is a quadrillionth of a second), but the Q state lasts for much less time, around 30 femtoseconds or even shorter. Understanding these dynamics is important because it helps explain how plants efficiently use light, which can lead to advances in improving energy capture in solar technology.
Who this helps: This helps scientists and researchers working in renewable energy, particularly in developing better solar energy technologies.
Measurement of CP Asymmetries in B^{0}→K_{S}^{0}π^{0}γ Decays at Belle II.
2025
Physical review letters
Adachi I, Aggarwal L, Ahmed H, Aihara H, Akopov N +434 more
Plain English This study looked at how often certain B mesons decay into different particles, measuring their behavior over time to understand how CP violation occurs, which is a difference in the behavior of matter and antimatter. The researchers collected data from around 388 million B meson collisions and found precise values for their decay patterns, which match what theories predicted. This research is important because it helps scientists understand fundamental questions about why our universe is made of matter rather than antimatter.
Who this helps: This helps physicists and researchers studying particle physics and the universe's fundamental laws.
Guide device to assist in performing arthroscopic surgery of the temporomandibular joint-a preliminary study.
2025
Journal of oral & facial pain and headache
Abboud W, Reiter S, Friedman-Rubin P, Shamir D, Peleg O
Plain English This study looked at a new guide device called the Locator-Positioner (LOPO) to help doctors perform arthroscopic surgery on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is important for patients with certain jaw problems. The research included 15 patients, with those using the LOPO device needing an average of 2.1 tries for cannula insertion, compared to 3 tries for those using the traditional method. The LOPO device also made the surgery faster, with an average time of 14 minutes versus 16.5 minutes for the control group, which is significant because quicker surgeries can mean less time under anesthesia and better recovery.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients undergoing TMJ surgery.
Loss of FXR or Bile Acid-dependent Inhibition Accelerate Carcinogenesis of Gastroesophageal Adenocarcinoma.
2025
Cellular and molecular gastroenterology and hepatology
Baumeister T, Proaño-Vasco A, Metwaly A, Kleigrewe K, Kuznetsov A +21 more
Plain English This study looked at how diet affects the development of a type of cancer known as gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (GEAC). Researchers found that a high-fat diet made tumors grow faster in mice, while also changing the levels of bile acids and gut bacteria. When the mice lacked a certain receptor called FXR, their cancer symptoms worsened, but treatment with a drug called obeticholic acid (OCA) improved these symptoms, suggesting FXR could be a key target for preventing this cancer.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients at risk for gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma and doctors seeking new treatment options.
Titin-dependent biomechanical feedback tailors sarcomeres to specialized muscle functions in insects.
2025
Science advances
Loreau V, Koolhaas WH, Chan EH, De Boissier P, Brouilly N +11 more
Plain English This study looked at how the tiny components of insect muscles, called sarcomeres, adapt to perform very different movements, like flying or crawling. Researchers found that a giant protein called titin plays an essential role in making these adjustments by influencing both the size and function of the sarcomeres based on the specific actions of the muscle. Understanding this process is important because it helps explain how insects have evolved specialized muscles for their diverse ways of moving.
Who this helps: This helps researchers studying muscle function and may benefit the development of treatments for muscle-related disorders.
School-to-work transition program for at-risk youths: Cultural adaptation.
2025
Work (Reading, Mass.)
Ivzori Y, Sachs D, Reiter S, Schreuer N
Plain English This research focused on a program designed to help at-risk youths transition from school to work, particularly among minority groups. After applying cultural changes to the program, 41 Druze high school students participated for 20 weeks, leading to noticeable improvements in their understanding of job opportunities and readiness for work. This matters because it shows that tailored programs can effectively support the career development of minority youths who often face additional challenges.
Who this helps: At-risk youths in minority communities.
Deep learning for classification of aggressive versus non-aggressive central giant cell granuloma using whole-slide histopathology images.
2025
Virchows Archiv : an international journal of pathology
Vered M, Shnaiderman-Shapiro A, Malouf R, Hirschhorn A, Buchner A +2 more
Plain English This study looked at using deep learning to help identify whether central giant cell granulomas (CGCGs) were aggressive or non-aggressive by analyzing detailed images of the tissues. Researchers found that the machine learning model had a low accuracy, with just 52% area under the curve, 54% sensitivity, and 50% specificity. The findings point to challenges in using automated methods for diagnosis, emphasizing the need for better imaging techniques in future research.
Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers working on diagnosing and treating CGCGs.
Applying an Anti-Kasha Model Resolves Differences Between Photosynthetic and Artificial Pigments.
2025
The journal of physical chemistry. B
Götze JP, Petry S, Reiter S, Lokstein H, de Vivie-Riedle R
Plain English This study looked at how energy is transferred in natural photosynthesis compared to artificial systems. Researchers found that natural pigments, like chlorophyll and carotenoids, can engage in unique energy transfer behaviors (called anti-Kasha processes) when they are in clusters, which allows them to absorb and transfer light energy more efficiently. Their findings revealed that when these pigments are mixed with other types, like accessory pigments, the efficiency of energy transfer can change significantly, affecting how plants harness sunlight.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists studying photosynthesis and developing better artificial light-harvesting systems.
Search for Lepton-Flavor-Violating Decay Modes B^{0}→K_{S}^{0}τ^{±}ℓ^{∓} with Hadronic B Tagging at Belle and Belle II.
2025
Physical review letters
Adachi I, Adamczyk K, Aggarwal L, Ahmed H, Aihara H +421 more
Plain English This study looked for a specific type of rare particle decay called lepton-flavor-violating decay in certain B mesons using data from the Belle and Belle II detectors. The researchers didn't find any evidence of these decays, but they established upper limits on how often they might occur, setting a range between 0.8 and 3.6 out of every million decays. This research is important because it contributes to our understanding of fundamental particle behavior and helps refine theories in particle physics.
Who this helps: This helps researchers in particle physics who are studying the fundamental forces and particles in the universe.
Search for P_{cc[over ¯]s}(4459)^{0} and P_{cc[over ¯]s}(4338)^{0} in ϒ(1S,2S) Inclusive Decays at Belle.
2025
Physical review letters
Adachi I, Aggarwal L, Ahmed H, Ahn JK, Aihara H +401 more
Plain English This research studied two specific pentaquark states, called P_{cc[over ¯]s}(4459)^{0} and P_{cc[over ¯]s}(4338)^{0}, by analyzing large sets of data from particle collisions. The study found evidence for the P_{cc[over ¯]s}(4459)^{0} state with a mass of about 4471.7 MeV/c² and a width of 22 MeV, indicating it may exist, as the results were statistically significant. Understanding these pentaquark states matters because they can help scientists learn more about the fundamental particles and forces that make up matter.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and physicists studying particle physics.
Anemonefish Chromatophore Distribution and Organization Revealed by TEM Studies.
2025
Zoological science
Miyake M, Chen HC, Salis P, Hall M, Humbel BM +4 more
Plain English Researchers studied the skin of anemonefish to understand how their colorful patterns are made up of different types of pigment cells. They found that the fish's white skin has a mix of certain cells, while orange skin has a different combination, and black skin only has one type of cell. This understanding is important because it helps explain how these fish develop their unique colors, which can be crucial for their survival and communication in the wild.
Who this helps: This helps scientists and researchers studying fish biology and color pattern formation.
Maintaining tandem movement cohesion through antennal movements in termites.
2025
Journal of the Royal Society, Interface
Mizumoto N, Reiter S
Plain English This study looked at how blind termites move together in pairs, particularly how they use their antennae and mouthparts to stay in contact during a type of movement called tandem running. Researchers found that when a male termite loses contact with a female, he starts swinging his antennae more and speeds up to re-establish contact. In experiments where one antenna was removed, males adjusted by swinging the remaining antenna more, showing that these movements are crucial for staying close together.
Who this helps: This research helps scientists understand how non-visual animals coordinate movement, which can inform conservation efforts and animal behavior studies.
Villar PS, Jiang H, Shugaeva T, Berdan EL, Kulkarni A +7 more
Plain English This study looked at how male octopuses find and mate with females using a unique arm called the hectocotylus. Researchers found that this arm acts as both a sensory and mating tool, helping the male to detect a hormone called progesterone from females, which is important for delivering sperm. Understanding these mechanisms not only sheds light on how octopuses reproduce but also helps explain how different species develop and survive.
Who this helps: This benefits biologists and conservationists studying marine life and biodiversity.
Postoperative Bleeding After Dental Implant Surgery in Patients on Direct Oral Anticoagulants: A Retrospective Case-Control Study.
2025
Dentistry journal
Manor Y, Ben-Izhack G, Manor PA, Peleg O, Reiter S
Plain English This study looked at bleeding after dental implant surgery in patients taking direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), which are blood thinners. Out of 80 patients analyzed, 17% who were on DOACs had bleeding issues, while only 10% of those not on these medications experienced bleeding. This is important because it highlights that patients on DOACs, particularly those over 75 or undergoing bone grafting, may need closer monitoring after their surgery.
Who this helps: This benefits patients on blood thinners and their dentists or oral surgeons.
Plain English This study looked at how much carbon dioxide (CO2) is produced from electricity use in 111 cities in Madagascar over eight years. Researchers found that between 2019 and 2022, CO2 emissions from households (about 52%) and industrial usage increased, while emissions from businesses decreased due to reduced activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding these trends is important for developing strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.
Who this helps: This helps policymakers and environmental organizations working to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency.
Plain English This study examined a new type of corneal tissue made from pig tissue (called XENIA) to see how strong and durable it is compared to human and pig corneal tissue. The researchers found that XENIA-lenticules were significantly stiffer, being 23.5 times stiffer than pig tissue and much more resistant to being broken down by enzymes. This discovery is important as it could provide a valuable alternative for patients needing corneal surgeries, especially where human donor tissue is limited.
Who this helps: Patients needing corneal transplants or augmentations.
Search for a Dark Higgs Boson Produced in Association with Inelastic Dark Matter at the Belle II Experiment.
2025
Physical review letters
Adachi I, Aggarwal L, Ahmed H, Aihara H, Akopov N +435 more
Plain English This study looked for a type of dark matter and a special particle called a dark Higgs boson, using data from the Belle II experiment. Researchers analyzed a large amount of data (365 billion collisions) but found no evidence for the dark Higgs or dark matter particles. They did, however, establish limits on how often these particles might be produced and how likely they are to interact, which is important for future research.
Who this helps: This helps scientists and researchers studying dark matter and fundamental physics.
Search for B^{0}→K^{*0}τ^{+}τ^{-} Decays at the Belle II Experiment.
2025
Physical review letters
Adachi I, Adamczyk K, Aggarwal L, Ahmed H, Aihara H +444 more
Plain English This study looked for a rare type of decay in particles called B mesons, specifically how they transform into other particles involving a K^{*0} particle and two tau particles. The researchers used data from the Belle II experiment and analyzed over 365 billion events, finding that the occurrence of this decay is extremely low, estimating it to be less than 0.18%. This is important because it provides more information about the behavior of fundamental particles and can help improve our understanding of the universe's basic building blocks.
Who this helps: This benefits physicists and researchers studying particle physics.
Circadian control of sleep-related neuronal activity in lizards.
2024
PNAS nexus
Yamaguchi ST, Hatori S, Kotake KT, Zhou Z, Kume K +2 more
Plain English Researchers studied how light affects sleep patterns in lizards, specifically focusing on their sleep stages like slow-wave sleep (SWS) and rapid eye movement sleep (REMS). They found that when lizards were kept in constant darkness, their sleep cycles became irregular, but normal patterns returned when they were exposed to 12 hours of light after dark exposure. This matters because it shows that light plays a crucial role in regulating sleep cycles in lizards, which may be important for their overall health and behavior.
Who this helps: This helps researchers studying sleep patterns in animals and could inform treatments for sleep disorders.
Draft genome sequences of 21strains isolated from amphibian specimens.
2024
Microbiology resource announcements
Zumkeller CM, Bletz MC, Rakotoarison A, Sabino-Pinto J, Reiter S +6 more
Plain English This research focused on the genetic makeup of 21 strains taken from European salamanders and various frog species from Madagascar. The scientists sequenced these genomes, which range in size from about 4.7 to 7.2 million base pairs, to better understand these animals' biology and help classify them correctly. This work is important because it can lead to better conservation strategies for these amphibians.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and conservationists working to protect amphibian species.
Effective engineering of a ketoreductase for the biocatalytic synthesis of an ipatasertib precursor.
2024
Communications chemistry
Honda Malca S, Duss N, Meierhofer J, Patsch D, Niklaus M +6 more
Plain English This study focused on improving an enzyme called ketoreductase, which is used to help create ipatasertib, a drug that inhibits a specific protein involved in cancer growth. The researchers enhanced the enzyme to be 64 times more effective than the original version and achieved over 98% yield of the desired product after 30 hours. This improvement is significant because it can make the production of important drugs more efficient and cost-effective.
Who this helps: This benefits pharmaceutical companies and ultimately patients needing effective cancer treatments.
Strong Optical Coupling of Lattice Resonances in a Top-down Fabricated Hybrid Metal-Dielectric Al/Si/Ge Metasurface.
2024
Nano letters
Oleynik P, Berkmann F, Reiter S, Schlipf J, Ratzke M +2 more
Plain English This study looked at a new type of surface that combines metal and dielectric materials to manipulate light in very thin layers. Researchers found that they could strongly enhance the interaction of light within these layers, as shown by specific measurements indicating that changing the design led to noticeable changes in light absorption. This is important because it could lead to better tools for things like on-chip sensors and advanced optical devices.
Who this helps: Patients and doctors who need improved diagnostic tools and sensing technologies.
Mabesoone MFJ, Leopold-Messer S, Minas HA, Chepkirui C, Chawengrum P +8 more
Plain English This study focused on improving bacterial enzymes called polyketide synthases (PKSs), which are used to create important drugs. The researchers identified a key area in these enzymes that could be adjusted to make new versions, successfully engineering 22 new types of PKSs. This is significant because it means scientists can create more complex drugs more easily, which could lead to better treatments for various diseases.
Who this helps: Patients in need of improved medications.
Cobalt-Mediated Photochemical C-H Arylation of Pyrroles.
2024
Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)
Märsch J, Reiter S, Rittner T, Rodriguez-Lugo RE, Whitfield M +5 more
Plain English This study looked at a new way to use cobalt, a more common metal, in a chemical process called photoredox catalysis, which helps in creating more complex molecules from simpler ones. The researchers found that a cobalt complex could successfully attach certain chemical groups to pyrroles, a type of organic compound, even though the excited state of the cobalt lasts only a tiny fraction of a second (8 picoseconds). This discovery is important because it shows that we can use less expensive and more environmentally friendly metals in chemical reactions, moving away from precious metals.
Who this helps: This helps chemists and researchers developing new chemical processes and materials.
Development of rhesus macaque astrocyte cell lines supporting infection with a panel of viruses.
2024
PloS one
Reiter S, Sun T, Gärtner S, Pöhlmann S, Winkler M
Plain English This study created new cell lines from the brains of rhesus macaques to help scientists better understand how certain viruses affect primates. The researchers found that these new cell lines can be infected by several viruses, including Zika and a primate herpesvirus. This is important because it offers a better way to study viral infections in non-human primates, which can lead to improved treatments and methods for dealing with these diseases.
Who this helps: This helps researchers studying viral infections in primates.
Widespread horse-based mobility arose around 2200 BCE in Eurasia.
2024
Nature
Librado P, Tressières G, Chauvey L, Fages A, Khan N +136 more
Plain English This research looked at horse genetics to understand when humans first began to use them widely for transportation. The study found that around 2200 BCE, people started actively breeding horses, leading to faster horses and greater mobility, which replaced many local horse types across Eurasia. This discovery changes the previous belief that large horse herds existed much earlier and suggests that organized use of horses played a crucial role in human development.
Who this helps: This helps historians and archaeologists understand the development of early human societies.
First Measurement of R(X_{τ/ℓ}) as an Inclusive Test of the b→cτν Anomaly.
2024
Physical review letters
Adachi I, Adamczyk K, Aggarwal L, Ahmed H, Aihara H +388 more
Plain English The study investigated the ratio of how often a specific type of particle (tau) decays compared to lighter particles (like electrons or muons) from certain B-mesons. Researchers used data from a particle collider and found that this ratio is 0.228, which fits well with existing scientific theories about particle interactions. This matters because it helps confirm current understanding of how particles behave at a fundamental level.
Who this helps: This helps physicists and researchers studying particle physics.
Microbiota metabolized Bile Acids accelerate Gastroesophageal Adenocarcinoma via FXR inhibition.
2024
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology
Baumeister T, Proaño-Vasco A, Metwaly A, Kleigrewe K, Kuznetsov A +20 more
Plain English This study looked at how a high-fat diet affects the gut bacteria and bile acids in the body, which in turn impacts the development of a type of cancer called gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (GEAC). Researchers found that a high-fat diet increased levels of certain bile acids and promoted tumor growth in mice, suggesting that disrupting a receptor called FXR plays a role in cancer progression. Importantly, when FXR was activated with a drug, it slowed down cancer development and improved the health of gut cells.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients at risk for gastroesophageal cancer, as well as doctors looking for new treatment options.
Molecular interactions of photosystem I and ZIF-8 in bio-nanohybrid materials.
2024
Physical chemistry chemical physics : PCCP
Reiter S, Gordiy I, Kollmannsberger KL, Liu F, Thyrhaug E +4 more
Plain English This study looked at how a natural photosystem, which helps in converting light into energy, interacts with a special metal-organic framework (MOF) called ZIF-8. The researchers found that the photosystem remained stable and intact while being protected by the MOF, even though there were changes in how it behaved in terms of light absorption and fluorescence. This is important because it shows that these bio-nanohybrid materials could be used safely and effectively for future energy solutions.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and engineers developing sustainable energy technologies.
Search for Rare b→dℓ^{+}ℓ^{-} Transitions at Belle.
2024
Physical review letters
Adachi I, Aggarwal L, Aihara H, Akopov N, Aloisio A +390 more
Plain English This research looked for rare types of particle decays involving B mesons, specifically how B particles change flavor in certain unexpected ways. The study found no signs of these rare decays and established limits on their occurrence, indicating they happen less frequently than previously thought, with rates estimated to be between about 3.8 and 47 occurrences out of every 100 million for different decay types. This is important because it provides the best current data on these rare processes, helping physicists understand fundamental particle interactions.
Who this helps: This helps physicists and researchers studying particle physics and the fundamental forces of nature.
The reliability of a modified three-stage cervical vertebrae maturation method for estimating skeletal growth in males and females.
2024
BMC oral health
Sella Tunis T, Masarwa M, Finkelstein T, Grinstein Koren O, Kats L +3 more
Plain English This study looked at a new method for estimating how much boys and girls grow by examining their neck bones, specifically cervical vertebrae. Researchers analyzed X-rays of 137 orthodontic patients and found that the new three-stage method had a reliability score of 0.689 overall, meaning it was fairly consistent, but it was even more reliable for older patients with a score of 0.896. It also revealed that the method worked better for boys than girls during certain growth stages, indicating differences in how male and female growth is assessed.
Who this helps: This benefits orthodontists and their patients by providing a more accurate way to assess growth patterns.
The alveolar trill is perceived as jagged/rough by speakers of different languagesa).
2024
The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America
Ćwiek A, Anselme R, Dediu D, Fuchs S, Kawahara S +8 more
Plain English This study examined how speakers from 28 languages associate certain sounds, specifically the trilled [r] and the softer [l], with images of jagged and smooth lines. The majority of participants matched the trilled [r] with the jagged line and the [l] with the straight line, showing a strong preference for this association. These results highlight how our understanding of sounds is linked to our perceptions of texture, helping us see connections between what we hear and how we visually interpret the world.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and language educators.
Towards a CMOS compatible refractive index sensor: cointegration of TiN nanohole arrays and Ge photodetectors in a 200 mm wafer silicon technology.
2024
Optics express
Mai C, Peczek A, Kroh A, Jose J, Reiter S +2 more
Plain English This study focused on creating a new type of refractive index sensor by combining tiny hole patterns made of titanium nitride (TiN) with germanium (Ge) photodetectors on silicon wafers. The researchers achieved a successful production process with a high yield of about 90%, and their Ge photodetectors showed solid performance, with dark currents around 129 mA/cm² and a responsivity of 0.114 A/W. This technology is important because it could lead to more efficient sensors that work in existing semiconductor manufacturing processes, making them easier to produce and integrate into devices.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and manufacturers working on advanced sensor technologies.
Axis I diagnosis profile according to the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD): comparison between hospital-based orofacial pain clinic and dental academic-based orofacial pain clinic.
2024
Journal of oral & facial pain and headache
Reiter S, Jazmawi S, Winocur E, Arias OW, Kats L +1 more
Plain English This study looked at patients with jaw disorders called temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and how the clinic where they were treated influenced their diagnoses. Researchers compared 88 patients from a dental school clinic to 104 patients from a hospital clinic, finding that factors like age, gender, and the type of doctor who referred the patient led to different diagnoses. For example, 55.7% of referrals to the dental clinic were from dentists, compared to only 13.5% in the hospital clinic, indicating that the type of clinic affects what conditions are diagnosed and potentially how they are treated.
Who this helps: This research benefits healthcare providers and patients with jaw pain by improving diagnosis and treatment approaches.
Measurement of CP Violation in B^{0}→K_{S}^{0}π^{0} Decays at Belle II.
2023
Physical review letters
Adachi I, Adamczyk K, Aggarwal L, Ahmed H, Aihara H +397 more
Plain English This study looked at a specific type of particle decay called B^{0}→K_{S}^{0}π^{0}. The researchers measured two important parameters related to how the decay violates a symmetry known as CP violation, finding values of C at -0.04 and S at 0.75. These findings, based on a large number of particle collisions, help scientists understand why our universe has more matter than antimatter, which is a fundamental question in physics.
Who this helps: This helps physicists studying the fundamental laws of nature.
Search for a τ^{+}τ^{-} Resonance in e^{+}e^{-}→μ^{+}μ^{-}τ^{+}τ^{-} Events with the Belle II Experiment.
2023
Physical review letters
Adachi I, Adamczyk K, Aggarwal L, Ahmed H, Aihara H +462 more
Plain English This study looked for a specific type of particle, which might produce pairs of tau particles when certain types of collisions occur in a particle accelerator. Researchers examined data from over 62 billion particle collisions and found no evidence of these particles, which means they were able to establish new limits on their possible characteristics and behaviors. This is important because it helps scientists understand the fundamental aspects of physics and sets boundaries on what kinds of new particles could exist.
Who this helps: This helps researchers studying particle physics and searching for new theories beyond the current model.
Precise Measurement of the D_{s}^{+} Lifetime at Belle II.
2023
Physical review letters
Adachi I, Aggarwal L, Aihara H, Akopov N, Aloisio A +357 more
Plain English This study looked at how long the D_{s}^{+} meson particle lasts before it decays, using a large amount of data from experiments at the SuperKEKB collider. They found that the average lifespan of the D_{s}^{+} meson is 499.5 femtoseconds, which is a more accurate measurement than what has been done before. This precise measurement is important for improving our understanding of particle physics and how these particles behave.
Who this helps: This helps researchers studying fundamental physics and the properties of subatomic particles.
Oral erythroplakia and oral erythroplakia-like oral squamous cell carcinoma - what's the difference?
2023
BMC oral health
Öhman J, Zlotogorski-Hurvitz A, Dobriyan A, Reiter S, Vered M +3 more
Plain English This study looked at two types of oral health conditions: oral erythroplakia (OE), which can become cancerous, and a related condition called oral erythroplakia-like squamous cell carcinoma (OELSCC). The researchers found that out of 20 cases analyzed, OE had a malignant transformation rate of 9% over about six years, while OELSCC patients had different symptoms and were more likely to have uneven surfaces or ulcers. Understanding these conditions better is important for proper diagnosis and treatment, as OE can look similar to other, less serious lesions in the mouth.
Who this helps: This research helps doctors and patients by improving the accuracy of oral cancer diagnoses.
Tests of Light-Lepton Universality in Angular Asymmetries of B^{0}→D^{*-}ℓν Decays.
2023
Physical review letters
Adachi I, Adamczyk K, Aggarwal L, Aihara H, Akopov N +414 more
Plain English Researchers studied how certain particles, called light leptons, behave during the decay of a specific type of meson called B^0 mesons. They analyzed data from over 189 billion collisions and looked for any signs that the behavior of these particles might not follow established scientific theories. They found no unusual behavior, meaning that existing theories about particle interactions are still accurate and reliable.
Who this helps: This benefits physicists working in particle research and helps improve our understanding of fundamental forces in nature.
B and T Cell Responses to SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination in Kidney and Liver Transplant Recipients with and without Previous COVID-19.
2023
Viruses
Watschinger C, Stampfel G, Zollner A, Hoog AM, Rössler A +7 more
Plain English This study looked at how well kidney and liver transplant patients respond to COVID-19 vaccinations compared to healthy individuals. It found that only 15% of those without prior COVID-19 developed an immune response after their first vaccine dose, increasing to 58.3% after the second dose; however, only half of the patients who initially didn’t respond became immune after a third booster. This is important because it highlights that transplant patients may need extra support and monitoring for their vaccinations to ensure they can build protection against the virus.
Who this helps: This research benefits kidney and liver transplant patients, as well as their doctors.