News & Press Releases

Names May Shape Facial Appearance Over Time New Study Suggests

29 July, 2024

A new study reveals that a person’s name may influence their facial appearance over time. Using human perception tests and machine learning, the research found that adults’ faces can be matched to their names more accurately than chance. However, this effect is not found in children’s faces, suggesting that face-name congruence develops as individuals age rather than being present from birth. This "self-fulfilling prophecy" highlights how social expectations can subtly shape physical appearance. The findings have implications for psychology, sociology, and artificial intelligence, demonstrating the interaction between social factors and identity formation.

The debate about the meaning of stereotypes is longstanding. Do they carry an inherent, hereditary factor, where, for example, boys and girls differ biologically, or is it the influence of social expectations? While the effects of heredity are relatively straightforward to measure, isolating and empirically measuring the impact of the environment is much more challenging. A new study led by Prof. Ruth Mayo at the Hebrew University, together with Dr. Yonat Zwebner, Dr. Moses Miller, Prof. Jacob Goldenberg of Reichman University's Arison School of Business, and Noa Grobgeld from the Hebrew University, has made a groundbreaking achievement by demonstrating the significant impact of social structuring. It was found that this influence is so powerful that it can even change a person's facial appearance.

The study has uncovered intriguing evidence that a person's name may influence their facial appearance as they age. This research, which combines human perception tests and advanced machine learning techniques, offers new insights into the complex interplay between social expectations and self-identity development.

Building on previous findings that adults' faces can be matched to their names at above-chance levels, Prof. Mayo's team sought to determine whether this face-name congruence is present from birth or develops over time.

Key findings include:

Both adults and children could accurately match adult faces to their names above chance levels.
Neither adults nor children could match children's faces to their names above chance levels.
Machine learning algorithms found greater similarity between facial representations of adults sharing the same name compared to those with different names.
This name-based facial similarity was not observed among children.
Artificially aged images of children's faces did not exhibit the face-name matching effect seen in actual adult faces.

"These results suggest that the congruence between facial appearance and names is not innate, but rather develops as individuals mature," explains Prof. Mayo. "It appears that people may alter their appearance over time to conform to cultural expectations associated with their name."

This "self-fulfilling prophecy" highlights the profound impact that social factors have. The study suggests that even seemingly arbitrary social tags like names can shape our appearance in subtle yet measurable ways.

The research raises fascinating questions about identity formation and the long-term effects of social expectations on individual development.

Prof. Mayo emphasizes that further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind this face-name matching effect and its broader implications. However, this study represents a significant step forward in understanding how social factors shape who we become.

The research paper titled “Can names shape facial appearance” is now available in PNAS and can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2405334121.

Researchers:

Yonat Zwebner¹, Moses Miller², Noa Grobgeld³, Jacob Goldenberg^1,4, Ruth Mayo⁵

Institution:

Marketing Department, Arison School of Business, Reichman University
Data Science Department, Arison School of Business, Reichman University
Clinical Child and Educational Psychology, The Seymour Fox School of Education, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Marketing Department, Columbia Business School, Columbia University
Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is Israel’s premier academic and research institution. With over 23,000 students from 90 countries, it is a hub for advancing scientific knowledge and holds a significant role in Israel’s civilian scientific research output, accounting for nearly 40% of it and has registered over 11,000 patents. The university’s faculty and alumni have earned eight Nobel Prizes, two Turing Awards a Fields Medal, underscoring their contributions to ground-breaking discoveries. In the global arena, the Hebrew University ranks 86th according to the Shanghai Ranking. To learn more about the university’s academic programs, research initiatives, and achievements, visit the official website at http://new.huji.ac.il/en

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Transforming Higher Education for Minority Students: Minor Adjustments, Major Impacts

29 July, 2024

A new study introduces a psychological intervention that enhances the sense of belonging and academic performance of minority students. Tested on over 20,000 students during the COVID-19 pandemic, this intervention demonstrates the impact of small institutional changes on minority students, highlighting important implications for promoting educational equity and inclusivity.

A new study led by PhD student Kinneret Endevelt, under the supervision of Dr. Roni Porat from the Department of Political Science and Department of International Relations and Prof. Eran Halperin from the Department of Psychology at the Hebrew University, unveils a novel approach to bridging the achievement gap for minority students in higher education. The research emphasizes the critical need to address minority students’ lingering sense of belonging uncertainty and introduces a psychological intervention aimed at fostering inclusivity and success within the university environment.

The study introduces a targeted intervention to enhance minority students' sense of belonging by modifying the institutional learning space. Tested in two large-scale field experiments in Israel with over 20,000 Jewish and Palestinian students during the COVID-19 pandemic, the intervention involved displaying the lecturer's name in Hebrew, English, and Arabic on Zoom. Results showed a significant positive impact on Palestinian students, including increased belonging, engagement, participation, and improved academic performance. Average grades rose by 10 points in the first experiment and by 4 points in the second. The research underscores that small, strategic institutional changes can significantly benefit minority populations, highlighting the importance of promoting an inclusive learning environment.

“This study underscores the power of seemingly minor modifications in educational settings to make substantial impacts on minority students' academic experiences and outcomes,” said Dr. Porat. “By acknowledging and integrating minority students’ cultural and linguistic backgrounds, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment that promotes equity in education.”

Beyond the virtual classroom, this approach can be extended to physical spaces by incorporating minority languages and cultural elements into faculty offices, cafeteria menus, and student lounges. Such practices can reinforce the sense of belonging and inclusion for minority students, creating a more supportive and equitable educational environment.

The implications of this study are extensive. By adopting and consistently reinforcing inclusive practices, educational institutions can reduce disparities and promote social mobility. This intervention also offers insights applicable to other contexts, such as workplaces and public spaces, suggesting that subtle changes in everyday environments can foster a more equitable and welcoming society.

The study reveals that small, meticulously crafted changes to the institutional environment can significantly impact minority students' academic achievements and sense of belonging. By embracing these findings, educational institutions can take meaningful steps toward creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students.

The research paper titled “Zoom out: An intervention on the virtual learning environment improves minority students’ grades in two field experiments in Israel” is now available in PNAS and can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2313496121.

Researchers:

Kinneret Endevelt¹, Eran Halperin¹, Roni Porat^2,3

Institution:

Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
The Department of Political Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Department of International Relations, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is Israel’s premier academic and research institution. With over 23,000 students from 90 countries, it is a hub for advancing scientific knowledge and holds a significant role in Israel’s civilian scientific research output, accounting for nearly 40% of it and has registered over 11,000 patents. The university’s faculty and alumni have earned eight Nobel Prizes, two Turing Awards a Fields Medal, underscoring their contributions to ground-breaking discoveries. In the global arena, the Hebrew University ranks 86th according to the Shanghai Ranking. To learn more about the university’s academic programs, research initiatives, and achievements, visit the official website at http://new.huji.ac.il/e

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Healthy Bees, Healthy Planet: The Impact of Balanced Diets on Honeybee Colonies

28 July, 2024

A new study has revealed that a balanced diet is crucial for the health and task performance of honeybees. The research shows that an unbalanced diet significantly delays the onset of nursing, reduces nursing frequency, and alters care for larvae. These findings highlight the importance of maintaining a balanced diet for honeybees to ensure their efficiency and survival, especially in cultivated landscapes with limited nutritionally balanced pollen sources.

A new study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has revealed that a balanced diet is essential for the optimal health and task performance of honeybees, a key species for pollination and ecosystem stability. The study, led by Prof. Sharoni Shafir from the Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, investigates how honeybees balance their nutritional intake to maintain homeostasis and enhance fitness. The findings indicate that an unbalanced diet with a high omega-6:3 ratio (5:1) significantly affects the bees' ability to nurse larvae, delaying the onset of nursing, reducing the frequency of nursing visits, and altering the attention given to larvae of different ages.

To test these effects, one-day-old adult worker bees were fed either a balanced diet or an unbalanced diet for seven days. The bees were then released into a common-garden hive, tagged with barcodes, and continuously filmed for six days. The analysis revealed that those on the unbalanced diet exhibited delayed nursing behavior and reduced efficiency in caring for larvae, particularly in differentiating between three-day-old and four-day-old larvae.

"Balanced nutrition is fundamental for honeybee colonies, impacting not just individual health but also the overall efficiency and survival of the hive," said Prof. Shafir. "Our study underscores the importance of maintaining a balanced omega-6:3 ratio in the diet of honey bees to ensure they can perform their crucial roles within the colony effectively."

The implications of this research are far-reaching, particularly in cultivated landscapes where the availability of nutritionally balanced pollen sources may be limited. The shift towards a greater omega-6:3 ratio in these areas could pose a significant threat to bee populations, affecting their health, cognitive abilities, and ability to sustain their colonies. "This study opens new avenues for further research linking fitness-related behaviors to nutritional balancing in honeybees," added Prof. Shafir. "It also highlights the need for conservation efforts to ensure diverse and nutritionally adequate pollen sources are available for these essential pollinators."

The research aligns with broader findings in other species, where nutritional imbalances are known to affect survival, reproductive success, and offspring health. It calls for increased awareness and measures to support the nutritional needs of honeybees, essential for maintaining their populations and the vital pollination services they provide.

The research paper titled “Unbalanced dietary omega-6:3 ratio affects onset of nursing and nurse–larvae interactions by honey bees, Apis mellifera” is now available in Animal Behaviour and can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anbehav.2024.05.007.

Researchers:

Danny Minahan, Maya Goren, Sharoni Shafir

Institution:

B. Triwaks Bee Research Center, Department of Entomology, Institute of Environmental Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is Israel's premier academic and research institution. Serving over 23,000 students from 80 countries, the University produces nearly 40% of Israel’s civilian scientific research and has received over 11,000 patents. Faculty and alumni of the Hebrew University have won eight Nobel Prizes and a Fields Medal. For more information about the Hebrew University, please visit http://new.huji.ac.il/en.

Pictures:

Title: Worker Honey Bees with Barcodes Engaging in Nursing Behavior
Description: Under red light (used to film the bees without disturbing them), with one barcoded bee as detected by the image-analysis software and its personal identification number appears on the screen.
Credit: Danny Minahan

Title: Barcoded nurse bees patrolling the brood area.

Credit: Danny Minahan

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The Secrets Behind Zelensky's Appeal

25 July, 2024

A recent study underscores the significant impact of personality and media representation in international relations, providing valuable insights for leaders aiming to garner global support through strategic communication. The findings reveal that highlighting Ukrainian President Zelensky's communal traits, such as warmth and morality, markedly boosts global empathy and support for Ukrainian citizens.

A new study conducted by Prof. Meital Balmas Cohen from the Department of Communication and Journalism, alongside Nitzan Attias and Prof. Eran Halperin from the Department of Psychology at the Hebrew University, reveals that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's communal personality traits significantly increase empathy and pro-social behaviors towards Ukrainian citizens amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

The research, which aimed to explore how national leaders can leverage their personality traits to influence public opinion and garner support beyond their borders, found that emphasizing Zelensky's communal traits such as warmth and morality led to increased empathy, willingness to help, and actual monetary donations for Ukrainians. The study was conducted through two experimental studies in Israel and the United States, providing robust evidence of the impact of personality traits on global perceptions and actions.

Since the onset of the Russian invasion in early 2022, President Zelensky has become a prominent figure on the world stage. His appeals to both world leaders and ordinary citizens have been pivotal in maintaining international support for Ukraine. Zelensky's frequent updates on social media and direct communications have aimed to elicit empathy and support from the global community.

"This study delves into the psychological mechanisms behind these efforts, revealing the power of communal traits in fostering empathy and pro-social behavior," said Prof. Meital Balmas Cohen. "Our findings have profound implications for understanding how national leaders can shape global public opinion and mobilize support. By highlighting communal traits, leaders can potentially overcome psychological barriers and foster a sense of connection and responsibility among international audiences."

This study underscores the critical role of personality in international relations, offering valuable insights for leaders seeking to galvanize global support for their nations. It also highlights the importance of media representation in shaping perceptions of foreign leaders. By focusing on communal traits, media outlets can enhance empathy and support for populations in conflict zones. These findings have significant implications for international diplomacy and humanitarian efforts, suggesting that strategic communication can be a powerful tool in mobilizing global assistance.

These findings offer a hopeful perspective on the power of empathy and the role of leadership in fostering global solidarity. The research underscores the potential for leaders to influence public opinion and drive positive action through the strategic emphasis of their personality traits.

The research paper titled “The Warm War: The Effect of Ukrainian President’s Communal Personality Traits on Empathy and Pro-Social Behavior towards the Ukrainians” is now available in Journal of Conflict Resolution and can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.1177/00220027241258379.

Researchers:

Meital Balmas¹, Nitzan Attias², and Eran Halperin²

Institutions:

Department of Communication and Journalism, Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Department of Psychology, Hebrew University of Jerusalem

Foto credit: Ukrainian Presidential Press Office via AP

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Plant and bacteria have extensively exchanged genes during their evolution

22 July, 2024

A new study has unveiled how plants and bacteria exchange genes to boost plant health and development. The team discovered 75 genes that were transferred between small, fast-growing plants (Arabidopsis thaliana) and its bacterial companions, influencing key processes like carbohydrate metabolism and hormone synthesis. This finding not only deepens our understanding of plant biology but also opens up exciting possibilities for enhancing crop resilience and productivity through advanced biotechnologies.

A new study has unveiled findings regarding genetic interactions between plants and their associated bacteria. The study, led by Dr. Asaf Levy from the Institute of Environmental Science at Hebrew University, in partnership with Dr. Yulia Fridman , Dr. Hitaishi Khandal , Prof. Sigal Savaldi-Goldstein from Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, reveals a dynamic cross-kingdom horizontal gene transfer (HGT) that could revolutionize our understanding of plant and bacterial biology and agricultural practices.

Plants rely on a complex community of bacteria which are crucial for their health and development. The research team hypothesized and confirmed that the close and long-standing relationship between plants and their microbiota facilitates the rare phenomenon of horizontal gene transfer, where genes are transferred directly between different species.

In a new discovery, Dr. Levy and his team identified 75 unique genes that were transferred horizontally between Arabidopsis thaliana, a commonly studied model plant, and bacteria. Plants acquired 59 genes from bacteria and bacteria acquired at least 16 genes from plants during evolution. These genes primarily enhance carbohydrate metabolism and auxin biosynthesis, pivotal for plant growth regulation and immune responses. For example a certain group of bacteria, Streptomyces, acquired from plants a gene that allow them to break down chitin, a compound which is prevalent in insects and fungi. In addition, the study identified 111 genes that were transferred between bacteria and eukaryotes in general (not necessarily plants).

Moreover, the study validated these findings by demonstration that a bacterial gene from the Actinobacteria phylum, when expressed in Arabidopsis, corrected growth defects associated with the plant’s DET2 gene mutation. DET2 is essential for the synthesis of a type of plant hormone called Brassinosteroid. These are crucial for plant growth and development. A plant that lacks DET2 gene is a dwarf plant. However, by expressing the bacterial homologous DET2 gene inside plants, the researchers were able to get a plant in a normal size, demonstrating that the two genes have the same function.

"This study highlights the intricacies of plant-microbe interactions and we were surprised that genes were acquired by organisms that are located so remotely on the tree of life, such as bacteria and plants. A bacterial gene acquired by plant has to undergo some changes to be active inside plant cells. It will be interesting to study the mechanisms by which the genes are acquired and evolved. The study opens new avenues for biotechnological applications in agriculture," said Dr. Levy. "Understanding and harnessing these gene transfers could lead to innovative strategies to enhance crop resilience and productivity if we understand why and also how certain genes were transferred. It is also intriguing if bacteria exchange genes with other organisms such as animals, including humans".

With global agriculture facing increasing challenges from climate change and population growth, innovations that enhance crop resilience and productivity are urgently needed. According to projections, advancements in plant-microbe interactions could potentially increase global food production by significant margins, addressing the growing demand for food security. Currently, the agricultural sector spends billions annually combating plant diseases and environmental stresses.

The research paper titled “Widespread horizontal gene transfer between plants and bacteria” is now available in ISME Communications and can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.1093/ismeco/ycae073.

Researchers:

Shelly Haimlich¹, Yulia Fridman², Hitaishi Khandal², Sigal Savaldi-Goldstein², Asaf Levy¹

Institutions:

1) The Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, Institute of Environmental Science, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food, and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem

2) Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology

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Fighting Antibiotic Resistance with Peptide Cocktails

22 July, 2024

Antibiotics are crucial in modern medicine, but their widespread use has led to antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing a serious public health threat. A new study highlights the potential of random antimicrobial peptide mixtures to significantly reduce the risk of resistance evolution compared to single peptides. These findings support the development of new antimicrobial strategies, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to outpace bacterial resistance and safeguard public health.

Antibiotics are essential tools in modern medicine, regularly used to treat bacterial infections and prevent infections during surgery. However, the widespread use of antibiotics has led to many bacteria developing resistance, posing a significant threat to public health. A recent study published in PLOS Biology, led by Prof. Zvi Hayouka from the Institute of Biochemistry Food science and Nutrition at the Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and Prof. Jens Rolff from the Freie Universität Berlin, along with postdoctoral fellow Dr. Bernardo Antunes, who was affiliated with both Hebrew University and Freie Universität Berlin, highlights the urgent need for new strategies to control bacterial infections due to the growing threat of antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Proper antibiotic use, quick diagnostics, and careful development of new antimicrobial agents, ideally less likely to select for resistance than current antibiotics, are crucial.

Antibiotic resistance is emerging as a pressing global health challenge. While individuals themselves do not become resistant to antibiotics, the bacteria causing infections can develop this resistance, leading to more difficult-to-treat illnesses. Recent data from the World Health Organization highlights the severity of this issue, with some countries reporting resistance rates as high as 42% for certain common bacterial strains. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that over 2 million antibiotic-resistant infections occur annually, underscoring the urgency of addressing this crisis.

The study explored whether newly developed random antimicrobial peptide mixtures can significantly reduce the risk of resistance evolution compared to single sequence antimicrobial peptides. The research team used the ESKAPE pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a model gram-negative bacterium, known for its challenging infections due to inherent resistance to many drug classes and its ability to form biofilms.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa was experimentally evolved in the presence of antimicrobial peptides or random antimicrobial peptide mixtures to assess resistance evolution and cross-resistance between treatments. The study also examined the fitness costs of resistance on bacterial growth and used whole-genome sequencing to identify mutations responsible for resistance. Additionally, changes in the pharmacodynamics of the evolved bacterial strains were analyzed.

The findings suggest that random antimicrobial peptide mixtures pose a much lower risk of resistance evolution compared to single antimicrobial peptides and mostly prevent cross-resistance to other treatments while maintaining or improving drug sensitivity. Prof. Zvi Hayouka emphasized the significance of their work, stating, "The growing threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria demands innovative solutions. Our research on random antimicrobial peptide mixtures presents a promising approach to outpace bacterial resistance, offering a viable alternative to traditional antibiotics and safeguarding public health."

This research suggests that Pseudomonas aeruginosa can detect these antimicrobial agents but cannot develop effective resistance within 4 weeks in vitro. Additionally, these antimicrobial peptide cocktails are affordable to synthesize and have proven to be non-toxic and non-hemolytic in a mouse model with strong efficacy profiles in several mouse model of human pathogenic bacterial infection model.

The findings advocate for the use of random antimicrobial peptide cocktails over single peptides, as resistance developed in vitro against single peptides. Despite some antibiotics, like Teixobactin, initially being deemed "resistance-proof," this was later disproven, necessitating caution even with the promising results for the random peptide mixture . Further research should explore the interaction of these random peptide mixtures with the host immune system. Employing peptides that synergize with the host response could diminish dosage requirements and side effects. This approach could be a cost-effective method to reduce bacterial loads and prevent resistance.

“It will still be quite some time before we are ready for practical applications,” says Prof. Jens Rolff. “Still, our current work demonstrates the potential that these combinations have when it comes to reducing antimicrobial resistance.”

Alongside their active research, Prof. Zvi Hayouka has co-founded a company, in partnership with Hebrew University's technology transfer company, Yissum, dedicated to addressing antibiotic resistance through innovative solutions Pepticore (https://tarominnovative.com/projects/pepticore/). The company aims to develop and commercialize new antimicrobial agents less likely to select for resistance. Their approach includes using different combinations of antibiotics and exploring mixtures made up of millions of molecules to inhibit resistance. This initiative is crucial, as antibiotic-resistant pathogens are estimated to cause approximately 5 million deaths annually. Despite advances in diagnostics and prudent antibiotic prescribing, developing new drugs remains essential to combat increasingly resistant bacteria.

The research paper titled “The evolution of antimicrobial peptide resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa is severely constrained by random peptide mixtures” is now available in PLOS Biology and can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pbio.3002692.

Researchers:

Bernardo Antunes^1,2, Caroline Zanchi¹, Paul R. Johnston^1,3,4, Bar Maron², Christopher Witzany⁵, Roland R. Regoes⁵, Zvi Hayouka², Jens Rolff^1,3

Institution:

Freie Universita¨ t Berlin, Evolutionary Biology
Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Berlin Centre for Genomics in Biodiversity Research
University of St. Andrews, School of Medicine
Institute of Integrative Biology, ETH Zurich

Funding

Freie Universität Berlin and The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Joint Berlin-Jerusalem Post-Doctoral Fellowship Program

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is Israel's premier academic and research institution. Serving over 23,000 students from 80 countries, the University produces nearly 40% of Israel’s civilian scientific research and has received over 11,000 patents. Faculty and alumni of the Hebrew University have won eight Nobel Prizes and a Fields Medal. For more information about the Hebrew University, please visit http://new.huji.ac.il/en.

About Yissum

Yissum is the technology transfer company of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Founded in 1964, Yissum serves as a bridge between cutting-edge academic research and a global community of entrepreneurs, investors, and industry. Yissum’s mission is to benefit society by converting extraordinary innovations and transformational technologies into commercial solutions that address our most urgent global challenges. The company has registered more than 11,680 patents globally, licensed over 1,160 technologies, and has spun out over 260 companies. Yissum’s business partners span the globe. For further information please visit www.yissum.co.il.

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Tobacco industry is specifically targeting Arab and Ultra-Orthodox news media in Israel

17 July, 2024

A recent study revealed that there are significant disparities in how Philip Morris International's IQOS heated tobacco product is portrayed in newspapers and other media aimed at different demographic groups in Israel. Specifically, news media targeted at Israel's Arab population tends to present IQOS more positively and is more likely to include misinformation regarding its safety, social benefits, and accessibility, often relying on PMI as a primary information source. This contrasts with the portrayal in mainstream media and media aimed at the general public. These differences suggest potential biases which may influence consumer perceptions and behaviors regarding tobacco products.

A recent research initiative led by Doctoral candidate Amal Khayat, Prof. Hagai Levine and Prof. Yael Bar-Zeev from the Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine at the Hebrew University-Hadassah, together with Prof. Carla Berg, Prof. Lorien Abroms and Dr. Yan Wang from George Washington University has uncovered significant disparities in the portrayal of Philip Morris International’s (PMI) IQOS, a prominent heated tobacco product, among minority groups in Israel.

The research, published in Tobacco Control, found distinct differences in how Arab and Ultra-Orthodox media depict IQOS compared to the mainstream media. Arab media, in particular, tended to present IQOS more positively, and more likely to spread misinformation regarding its safety and social benefits, and frequently relying on PMI as a primary information source. Moreover, Arab media articles emphasized the accessibility of IQOS retail locations, mimicking advertisement.

PMI’s IQOS ranks as the top heated tobacco product globally and was introduced in Israel in 2016. Notably, advertising for all tobacco products, including IQOS, is prohibited in Israel except in print media. However, the study suggests that news media may serve as an alternative advertising channel, circumventing these advertising restrictions.

The favorable depictions of IQOS and PMI in media articles can significantly influence consumer perceptions and behaviors. While paid advertisements are known to target specific demographics, the impact of "earned" media such as news articles on these groups remains less clear.

Methodologically, the study analyzed media articles from January to October 2020 from Ifat media, utilizing abductive coding techniques. Statistical tests were employed to compare article characteristics across different subpopulations (Arab, Ultra-Orthodox Jews, and the general public). The analysis focused on understanding how IQOS and PMI were framed in the media to assess the tone and content of coverage.

The findings, based on 63 unique articles, revealed significant biases in media targeting of different subpopulations. Specifically, articles directed at Arabs and Ultra-Orthodox Jews portrayed IQOS more positively compared to those aimed at the general public—100% and 75% versus 52%, respectively. Arab media notably emphasized IQOS accessibility (81% versus 17% and 13%) and its social benefits (88% versus 8% and 17%) more prominently. Furthermore, 100% of articles in the Arab media reflected content from the tobacco company press release, compared to 35% in the general public media.

Prof. Levine, senior author: "The study underscores the critical need for rigorous media surveillance and regulatory measures, especially in media outlets targeting minority populations, to ensure fair and balanced reporting. The positive framing of IQOS in minority-targeted media highlights the potential influence of targeted marketing on public perceptions and tobacco product usage across diverse demographics. Minority populations in Israel, and likely in other countries, are not protected from the manipulative vicious marketing strategies of the tobacco industry, corrupting media outlets".

Amal Khayat, lead author: "We recommend enhanced media surveillance and regulation, particularly in minority-oriented media, to ensure accurate reporting on tobacco products. Understanding how different subpopulations, such as the Arab minority in Israel, perceive tobacco-related information can guide regulatory interventions to counteract potential misinformation and prevent disparities in tobacco-related behaviors. Our study also calls attention to the use of news media as an alternative marketing channel by tobacco companies in regions with advertising bans, advocating for measures to protect public health and mitigate the promotion of potentially harmful products."

The research paper titled “IQOS news media coverage in Israel: a comparison across three subpopulations” is now available in Tobacco Control and can be accessed at 10.1136/tc-2023-058422.

Researchers:

Amal Khayat¹, Yael Bar-Zeev¹, Yechiel Kaufman¹, Carla J. Berg², Lorien C. Abroms², Zongshuan Duan³, Cassidy R. LoParco², Yan Wang², Yuxian Cui², Hagai Levine¹

Institutions:

Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem - Hadassah Medical Center
Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University
Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University

Funding

This research was supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Cancer Institute (RO1CA239178-01-A1; MPIs: CJB, HL)

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New Study Shows How Organic Molecules Impact Gold Nanoparticles

17 July, 2024

A new study shows how organic molecules greatly influence the redox potential of gold nanoparticles, with differences up to 71 mV. Using experiments and computer simulations, the study highlights the important role of capping agents in controlling the nanoparticles' electrochemical properties and also identifies how kinetic effects impact these interactions. These findings have practical uses in areas like nanoparticle dispersion, monitoring ligand exchange, and advancements in fields such as catalysis, electronics, and drug delivery, showing the potential for customizing nanoparticle behavior for specific applications.

A recent study led by Prof. Daniel Mandler with Prof. Roi Baer and Dr. Hadassah Elgavi Sinai and a team at Hebrew University, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, reveals how organic molecules affect the behavior of tiny gold particles absorbed on surfaces. Their research deepens our understanding of how these nanoparticles absorbed on surfaces interact with their surroundings, offering important insights for various uses. The research was conducted jointly by PhD student Din Zelikovich, who carried out very careful experiments and MSc student Pavel Savchenko, who conducted the theoretical calculations.

The study found that different molecules, like 2- and 4-mercaptobenzoic acid, can cause gold nanoparticles to have significantly different electrical properties, with differences up to 71 Mv (millivolts). This highlights how crucial these molecules are in determining how nanoparticles behave.

Using advanced computer simulations and experiments, the collaboration between the experimental and theoretical teams showed that some molecules stick to gold surfaces in predictable ways, matching what they saw experimentally. However, they also found that the kinetics, namely, the rate the nanoparticles are oxidized adds more complexity to how they interact.

For instance, they discovered that gold nanoparticles stabilized by 4-mercaptobenzoic acid reacted twice as quickly as those with citrate. This finding, backed by scientific theories, shows just how much the right molecule can change how these nanoparticles act.

Prof. Daniel Mandler emphasized the significance of the research, stating, "Our study demonstrates the profound impact that capping agents have on the redox properties of nanoparticles. This understanding allows us to fine-tune nanoparticle behavior for specific applications, potentially leading to significant impact in fields ranging from catalysis to drug delivery."

As the scientific community continues to explore the intricate world of nanoparticles, this research contributes valuable knowledge to the field of nanoparticle chemistry. By shedding light on the complex interactions between nanoparticles and their capping agents, this study opens new avenues for designing and optimizing nanoparticles for a wide range of applications, promising exciting developments in nanotechnology in the years to come.

The research paper titled “The Effect of the Capping Agents of Nanoparticles on Their Redox Potential” is now available in the Journal of the American Chemical Society and can be accessed at https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jacs.4c02524#

Researchers:

Pavel Savchenko¹, Din Zelikovich², Hadassah Elgavi Sinai¹, Roi Baer¹, Daniel Mandler²

Institutions:

Fritz Haber Research Center for Molecular Dynamics and Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem

Illustration

Title: Understanding how nanoparticles interact with organic molecules

Credit: Din Zelikovich (PhD student), Pavel Savchenko (MSc student) and Hadassah Elgavi Sinai (Senior Researcher).

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Beyond Algorithms: The Role of Human Empathy in AI-Enhanced Therapy

15 July, 2024

A new study at Hebrew University explored the balance between AI and human therapists in mental health therapy, focusing on the role of empathy. The researchers propose a hybrid model where AI supports therapeutic processes without replacing the crucial human elements of empathy and emotional engagement. The study calls for further investigation into how AI can enhance therapy while ensuring genuine human connections are maintained.

A new study by researchers from the Psychology Department at the Hebrew University published in JMIR Ment Health have made significant strides in understanding the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in mental health therapy. Their research focuses on the delicate balance between AI-driven interactions and the irreplaceable human touch in therapeutic settings, addressing critical questions about when AI might effectively replace human therapists and when the human connection remains indispensable.

Led by Prof. Anat Perry, the team has carefully defined various aspects of empathy, comparing the empathic capabilities of humans and AI. In the current JMIR paper, the authors delve into how AI versus human capabilities align with the therapeutic needs, considering both the methodologies employed in therapeutic settings and the individual goals of patients. The study emphasizes the nuanced role of empathy in therapy, underscoring that while AI can simulate empathic interactions and sometimes even create the impression of understanding beyond human capabilities, it lacks the ability to genuinely connect on an emotional level, and crucially to genuinely care.

Prof. Perry highlights the core of their findings, stating, "While AI can provide responses that seem empathically correct, true empathy involves an emotional engagement, and signalling of genuine care, that AI simply does not have. Our study seeks to explore this boundary to better understand when AI can be beneficial in therapy and when it cannot."

The research proposes a novel hybrid therapeutic model where AI supports but does not replace human therapists. This model suggests that AI could effectively handle tasks such as initial patient intake and routine evaluations, and even assist in certain treatment modalities. However, it crucially maintains that human therapists should be involved in situations where deep empathy and compassion are required, ensuring that the therapy remains grounded in genuine human interaction.

This study aligns with emerging trends in the field of mental health therapy, where technology is increasingly integrated into traditional therapeutic practices. Existing models, such as those combining cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with AI-driven tools, have shown promise in enhancing accessibility and efficiency of therapy. For instance, AI applications can offer real-time feedback and personalized recommendations, complementing the therapist's role and enabling more effective treatment plans.

Though much of the research remains theoretical, it raises empirical questions that are vital for the future of mental health therapy. The team calls on both industry professionals developing AI applications for mental health and academic researchers to consider these insights and the importance of maintaining human elements in therapy.

These theoretical opinion papers serve as a crucial reminder of the need to carefully evaluate the use of AI in mental health therapies, balancing technological innovations with the essential human connections that form the backbone of effective therapeutic relationships.

This is Perry’s third paper on the topic, following an influential Correspondence piece in Nature Human Behaviour last year (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-023-01675-w), and a Correspondence on AI, empathy and ethics published with a team of interdisciplinary scholars last month in Nature Machine Intelligence (https://www.nature.com/articles/s42256-024-00841-7).

The research paper titled “Considering the Role of Human Empathy in AI-Driven Therapy” is now available in JMIR Ment Health and can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.2196/56529.

Researchers:

Matan Rubin, Hadar Arnon, Jonathan D Huppert, Anat Perry

Institutions:

Psychology Department, Hebrew University of Jerusalem

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Predicting Bitterness in Foods Using Mass Spectrometry

14 July, 2024

BitterMasS, a novel tool utilizing mass spectrometry, promises a revolutionary leap in predicting bitterness in compounds. Developed through interdisciplinary collaboration, it offers enhanced precision and efficiency compared to traditional methods, with wide-ranging applications in food science, pharmaceuticals, and beyond. BitterMasS not only accelerates taste perception research but also holds potential for transforming food processing, health discoveries, and safety monitoring, marking a significant advancement in taste prediction and compound screening technologies.

Introducing BitterMasS, a pioneering tool developed by a team led by Phd student Evgenii Ziaikin and Prof. Masha Niv from Hebrew University and Dr. Edisson Tello and Prof. Devin Peterson from Ohio State University. BitterMasS harnesses the power of mass spectrometry to predict bitterness in compounds without requiring prior knowledge of their chemical structures. This advancement marks a significant departure from traditional methods that relied on structural data, which only covers a small fraction of the metabolome.

Bitterness, a fundamental taste modality potentially related to toxic substances, has long intrigued scientists and food experts alike. Today, an innovating study promises to revolutionize how bitterness is understood and managed in foods and beverages.

Using a dataset of over 5,400 experimental mass spectra of bitter and non-bitter compounds, BitterMasS achieved remarkable precision and recall rates in internal tests. For external validation, the tool demonstrated robust performance, accurately identifying bitter compounds without structural information. These findings underscore BitterMasS potential to streamline compound screening processes in food science, pharmaceuticals, and beyond.

"BitterMasS represents a critical shift in taste prediction," said Prof. Masha Niv, lead researcher. "By leveraging mass spectrometry data, we can now predict bitterness directly and efficiently, opening doors to new discoveries in health-promoting compounds and enhanced food processing techniques."

Researchers envision BitterMasS as a versatile tool capable of monitoring bitterness changes over time, providing critical insights into food quality and safety. This innovative approach also offers practical applications in drug development and metabolomics.

In summary, BitterMasS stands as a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and technological innovation in advancing our understanding of taste. Its implications extend far beyond the lab, potentially reshaping how we perceive and utilize bitter compounds in various industries.

The research paper titled “BitterMasS: Predicting Bitterness from Mass Spectra” is now available in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry and can be accessed at https://www.webofscience.com/wos/woscc/full-record/WOS:001226287400001

DOI 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c09767

Researchers:

Evgenii Ziaikin¹, Eddison Tellow², Devin G. Peterson², Masha Y. Niv¹

Institutions:

1. Hebrew University Jerusalem, Institute of Biochemistry Food & Nutrition, Robert H Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food & Environment

2. Ohio State University, College of Food Agriculture and Environmental Sciences

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is Israel's premier academic and research institution. Serving over 23,000 students from 80 countries, the University produces nearly 40% of Israel’s civilian scientific research and has received over 11,000 patents. Faculty and alumni of the Hebrew University have won eight Nobel Prizes and a Fields Medal. For more information about the Hebrew University, please visit http://new.huji.ac.il/en.

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