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Science News for December 11, 2023


Scientific community: Ukraine may have lost 20% of its pre-war scientific research capacity

A recent survey found that 18.5% of Ukrainian scientists had left the country since the start of the war, with those more productive and research-active being more likely to emigrate. The average time spent on research activities reduced from 13 hours to 10 hours, equating to a loss of about 20% of scientific research capacity.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalHumanities and Social Sciences Communications·TypeSurvey·DateDec 11, 2023

New insight on electrochemical reactions – advancing the green transition

Researchers at University of Jyväskylä have gained new understanding on the chemistry of electrochemical interfaces, focusing on electrolyte ion effects. This knowledge can enhance the development of improved electrochemical technologies, including fuel cells and hydrogen peroxide synthesis.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2023

Spanish scientists identify the molecular mechanisms controlling the genes involved in proper formation of the heart valves

Researchers at the Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares discovered the molecular mechanisms behind proper heart valve formation and prevention of calcification. They found that Notch signaling pathway disruption causes both valve defects and calcification.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalCirculation Research·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2023

Beluga whales’ calls may get drowned out by shipping noise in Alaska’s Cook Inlet

Researchers found that commercial ship noise completely masks Cook Inlet beluga whales' most commonly used calls, compromising their critical communication. The study documents the complex vocal repertoire of the population and provides a quantified measure of masking by ship noise on their communication.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2023

Prenatal exposure to GLP-1 receptor agonists and other second-line antidiabetics may not pose greater risk to infants than insulin

A new study found no increased risk of major congenital malformations in infants exposed to second-line non-insulin antidiabetic medications during pregnancy compared to those treated with insulin. The study examined over 3.5 million pregnancies and provided reassurance on the safety of these medications for fetuses.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2023

The Lancet Oncology: Risk of dying from cancer in some poorer districts of England over 70% higher than wealthy districts, study suggests

A recent study published in The Lancet Oncology found that the risk of dying from cancer in some poorer districts of England is over 70% higher than in wealthier areas. The study used death records to estimate the risk of dying from various cancers in each district, highlighting significant inequalities in cancer mortality across diffe...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2023

New geophysical technique enhances imaging of fluid-filled rocks finding connections with microearthquakes

Researchers have developed a new method called ambient noise differential adjoint tomography to visualize rocks with fluids, potentially advancing the discovery of water and oil resources. The technique uses portable seismometers to record natural vibrations, revealing tiny holes filled with fluids in rocks near active faults.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2023

Permselectivity reveals a cool side of nanopores

Scientists have found that by controlling ion flow through nanopores, they can achieve cooling. At high concentrations, increased heat was measured, but at low concentrations, negatively charged ions interacted with the nanopore wall, resulting in a decrease in temperature.

SourceOsaka University·JournalDevice·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2023

Separated by war: deforestation and reforestation in the Ukrainian emerald network

Researchers found that Ukrainian-controlled territories gained forest area despite military conflict, while Russian-controlled territories experienced significant forest loss. The study highlights the impact of modern warfare on environmental sustainability and conservation in Ukraine's Emerald Network.

SourceDa Vinci Labs·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 11, 2023

Johns Hopkins Medicine scientists uncover molecular link between wet and dry macular degeneration

Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a molecular pathway involving oxidative stress and the protein HIF-1 that contributes to both wet and dry age-related macular degeneration. Researchers found that while HIF-1 promotes blood vessel growth in retinal cells, it also protects against cell death in advanced dry AMD.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2023

A scheme for realizing nonreciprocal interlayer coupling in bilayer topological systems

A new scheme for realizing nonreciprocal interlayer coupling in bilayer topological systems has been developed by researchers at Peking University. The scheme is based on constructing on-site gain/loss in bilayer non-Hermitian topological systems and reveals a relation between two microscopic provenances of the non-Hermiticity.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Optoelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2023

Third-generation anti-CD19 CAR T-cells demonstrate efficacy without neurotoxicity in B-cell lymphoma phase 1 clinical trial

A phase 1 clinical trial demonstrates the efficacy of third-generation anti-CD19 CAR T-cells in treating relapsed or refractory B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas without causing neurotoxicity. The study also shows a robust response rate of 52% and improved safety profile compared to previous CAR T-cell therapies.

SourceMalaghan Institute of Medical Research·JournalBlood·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2023

Technology not growing fast enough to decarbonize steel and cement industries by 2050

A new study by the National Institute for Environmental Studies shows that current infrastructure deployment is insufficient to meet Paris Agreement targets, requiring a shift in how materials are used or consumed. The study estimates that feasible supply of steel and cement within a carbon budget will fall short of expected global dem...

SourceNational Institute for Environmental Studies·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 11, 2023

Predictive models augur that at the end of the century fields will need more water than today

Researchers from the University of Córdoba used machine learning models to predict reference evapotranspiration in Southern Spain until 2100. The projections indicate a significant increase in water needs, with air temperature being the key factor in calculating this parameter.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalComputers and Electronics in Agriculture·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 11, 2023

Group summarizes guidance for the prevention, diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of hepatitis C virus in chronic kidney disease

The American College of Physicians has published a new clinical practice guideline for the prevention, diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of hepatitis C virus in chronic kidney disease. The guideline includes recommendations for expanding treatment with sofosbuvir-based regimens to patients with CKD glomerular filtration rate categor...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateDec 11, 2023

Health impacts of abuse more extensive than previously thought, research says

Research found elevated risks between intimate partner violence and childhood sexual abuse and various health conditions. Intimate partner violence was associated with increased risk of major depressive disorders, maternal abortion, and alcohol misuse, while childhood sexual abuse linked to increased risk of self-harm and alcohol use.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 11, 2023

Wayne State University study reports progress in long-term protection against ovarian cancer tumors

A Wayne State University study reports progress in a therapeutic approach that can restore immune surveillance and provide long-term protection against ovarian cancer tumors. The therapy, CARG-2020, has shown promise in animal models and may prove more effective than existing immunotherapies.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalCancer Immunology Research·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2023

Study: Women-led groups were key to food security during COVID-19 in India

A new study found that women-led self-help groups in Odisha, India played a crucial role in maintaining food security during the COVID-19 lockdowns by procuring fresh produce from farmers and selling it to local markets. The groups also provided training and support to their members, enabling them to start their own businesses.

Caffeine highs and lows footballers should be aware of

Research by Staffordshire University found that caffeine can improve short pass accuracy but negatively affect decision-making and long pass accuracy. The study suggests that coaches may need to adjust training strategies to account for caffeine's effects on young soccer players.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalBehavioural Brain Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 11, 2023

Study: Extreme rainfall increases ag nutrient runoff, conservation strategies can help

A new study from the University of Illinois finds that extreme rainfall leads to significant spikes in nutrient concentrations, particularly after ½ inch, 1 inch, and 2 inches of precipitation. However, agricultural management practices such as cover crops can lower nutrient levels in water and persist until the end of the growing season.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association·DateDec 11, 2023

Holidays crank up kilos for Aussie kids

Research shows that Australian children are at risk of excessive weight gain and declining fitness during school holidays. The two-year study found that body fat increased at a faster pace and aerobic fitness declined faster than in-school periods. Promoting physical activities during holidays could help address unhealthy weight gain.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalBMC Public Health·TypeCase study·DateDec 11, 2023

Public bodies “overwhelmed” at having to implement human rights laws, study warns

A new study warns that public bodies in England and Wales are 'overwhelmed' by the task of implementing human rights laws, with staff placing greater weight on implementation than on understanding the laws themselves. The research suggests that those who view equality and human rights law as malleable are more likely to trust individua...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalRecht der Werkelijkheid·TypeSurvey·DateDec 11, 2023

KAIST introduces eco-friendly technologies for plastic production and biodegradation​

Researchers at KAIST have developed eco-friendly technologies for producing plastics and processing waste plastics using microorganisms. The team presented the latest microorganism-based technologies that can produce plastics from renewable biomass resources and decompose waste plastics, contributing to a circular economy.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 11, 2023

Genetic “protection” against depression was no match for pandemic stress

A study of first-year college students reveals that pandemic stress triggers a rise in clinical depression, even among those with genetic factors that previously shielded them. The research identifies potential predictors of psychological resilience and provides a tool to identify at-risk students for targeted support.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2023

Alaskan allies: Communities unite to protect the areas they love

The University of Illinois initiative brings Denali neighbors together in an online discussion forum to share views on protected area conservation and land management. The study finds that engaging diverse stakeholders leads to collaborative dialogue and thoughtful discussions, despite differing priorities.

Have researchers found the missing link that explains the mysterious phenomenon known as fairy circles?

A new study by Prof. Ehud Meron and colleagues proposes that pairing spatial patterning and phenotypic changes is the missing link to understanding fairy circles. The researchers found that combining plant-level phenotypic changes with population-level spatial patterning can result in resilient ecosystem responses to water stress.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 11, 2023

Mass General Brigham researchers develop ‘potent and specific’ compounds to curb cancer growth

Researchers at Mass General Brigham have developed a new class of proteasome inhibitors that specifically target the β2 active site in cancer cells. The newly synthesized compounds effectively inhibit multiple myeloma cell growth and show promise for reducing therapeutic resistance and side effects when combined with existing drugs.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2023

If a piece of Turkey gets stuck in your throat this Christmas, there is no point in trying to free it with Cola

A study published in the BMJ Christmas Issue investigated the effectiveness of cola in loosening stuck food in the oesophagus. The results show no significant improvement, with only 61% of patients experiencing relief on their own. Cola use was found to have no side effects or complications.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·JournalThe BMJ·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 11, 2023

Patients with a common form of acute myeloid leukemia report better quality of life when treatment includes new drug quizartinib

A new study led by Dr. Mikkael Sekeres found that patients with a common form of acute myeloid leukemia reported better quality of life when treated with quizartinib, which targets the FLT3-ITD mutation. The study also showed minimal side effects and improved survival rates compared to those who didn't receive the drug.

Defusing a ‘ticking time bomb’: Groundbreaking research offers early clues to stomach cancer development

Researchers identified 26 'driver genes' that play a pivotal role in the transition to stomach cancer, providing a critical window for early detection and targeted prevention. The study's findings offer new insights into the mechanisms governing the transformation of intestinal metaplasia into stomach cancer.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalCancer Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2023

Inclusive content, peer support, media information literacy can combat health misinformation spread to adolescents on social media

A new commentary in JAMA Pediatrics recommends improving adolescents' media information literacy skills and promoting inclusive content to combat health misinformation spread on social media. This approach aims to harness the potential of social media as a tool for positive connections and mental well-being.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 11, 2023

Just say no to that invitation

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that people often overestimate the negative ramifications of declining an invitation, but the actual effects are much less severe. The researchers conducted five experiments with over 2,000 participants and discovered that individuals tend to exaggerate the degree to whi...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateDec 11, 2023

New tool to analyze blood platelets holds major medical potential

A novel technique to test platelet function within a person's blood sample is faster, easier and more precise than methods currently in use. The technology has the potential to assess the effects of antiplatelet drugs on individuals and gain a clearer picture of bleeding risks for patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass surgery.

SourceEmory University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2023

Real world data shows impact of immunotherapy in populations underrepresented in clinical trials, according to JNCCN study

A recent study published in JNCCN found that patients from underrepresented groups treated with first-line immunotherapy for advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) showed similar survival outcomes as their White counterparts. The study analyzed data from 248 patients and highlighted the need for more diverse patient representation...

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·DateDec 11, 2023

Pots full of history

Prehistoric pottery production discovered to be linked to hunter-gatherer communities, not solely farming, and influenced culinary traditions in Europe. Analysis of pot residues reveals information on cooked products and food processing methods.

SourceNicolaus Copernicus University in Torun·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2023

Don't say "vegan"

A national food choice experiment found that labeling a meat-free and dairy-free food basket as 'vegan' or 'plant-based' leads to lower appeal, whereas labels like 'healthy' or 'sustainable' result in higher preference. This study suggests using these alternative labels can encourage healthier and more environmentally sustainable eatin...

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateDec 11, 2023

A URV study analyzes how the green transition affects competition and concentration in the business market

The study finds that a lack of investment in sustainable processes can lead to market concentration and reduced competition. However, when all companies invest in green transition, prices increase but overall benefit is maximized due to consumer willingness to pay more for environmentally friendly products.

SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 11, 2023

New study shows Transcendental Meditation significantly reduced PTSD and anxiety in frontline nurses during COVID-19 pandemic by more than half over a 3-month period

A study published in the Journal of Nursing Administration found that Transcendental Meditation significantly reduced PTSD, anxiety, and burnout in frontline nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The technique improved flourishing by 15% and decreased symptoms by more than half over a 3-month period.

SourceTranscendental Meditation for Nurses·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 11, 2023