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Science News for November 15, 2023


Do extracurricular activities always give children a head start? Research says maybe not

A study by Dr Lixin Ren found that extracurricular activities have a limited impact on math skills in preschool children, with effects dependent on behavioral regulation and approaches to learning. For children with poor self-regulation skills, structured activities can improve early math skills.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalJournal of School Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2023

Roaming seabirds need ocean-wide protection

New research reveals Indian Ocean seabirds face no hotspots where predators feast on prey, highlighting the need for ocean-wide protection. The study's findings suggest that international action is necessary to safeguard these birds' survival due to human activities like overfishing and pollution.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 15, 2023

Pesticides from cannabinoids? New study shows promise

A new study by Cornell University researchers found that higher cannabinoid concentrations in hemp leaves led to proportionately less damage from insect larvae. The study suggests the potential for developing pesticides from cannabinoid extracts, but such uses would be limited to non-edible plants.

SourceCornell University·JournalHorticulture Research·DateNov 15, 2023

Study finds increasingly popular oral nicotine pouches do little to curb smokers’ cravings

Researchers at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that oral nicotine pouches do not curb current smokers' nicotine cravings effectively. The study suggests that these products may be more appealing to young people due to their longer onset time and gradual relief from craving symptoms.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalAddiction·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 15, 2023

Scientists piece together DNA repair pathway implicated in breast, ovarian, and prostate cancers

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have pieced together the lesser-known DNA repair pathway, polymerase theta-mediated end joining (TMEJ), which is upregulated in patients with hereditary breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and prostate cancer. The discovery could lead to new therapies for cancer by targeting this pathway.

Riddle of Kondo effect solved in ultimately thin wires

Physicists have directly observed the Kondo effect in a single artificial atom using a scanning tunnelling microscope. The team confirmed a decades-old prediction by validating their experimental data against theoretical models. This breakthrough paves the way for investigating exotic phenomena in magnetic wires.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2023

Realistic talking faces created from only an audio clip and a person’s photo using NTU Singapore computer program

Researchers developed DIRFA, an AI-based program that generates realistic videos with facial animations synchronized to spoken audio, showcasing improvements over existing approaches. The tool has potential applications in healthcare, education, and entertainment, enhancing user experiences.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalPattern Recognition·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 15, 2023

GIST researchers improve water splitting reaction for green hydrogen gas production

Researchers from GIST have developed a new electrode using Schottky junctions to overcome the conductance limit of active catalysts, achieving high-performance water splitting and hydrogen evolution reactions. The electrode demonstrated remarkable current density and durability during continuous operation for 10 days.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalApplied Catalysis B Environment and Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2023

Night-time radiative warming using the atmosphere

Researchers develop a passive approach to night-time warming by harnessing energy from the atmosphere, reducing reliance on electric heaters and lowering energy consumption. The new strategy achieves significant temperature increases and annual electricity savings of over 300 kWh m-2 in various climate zones.

Study reveals link between neighborhood environmental burden and risk of cardiovascular disease

A national study found that exposure to environmental hazards in neighborhoods is associated with poor cardiovascular health, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged communities. The study used the Environmental Justice Index to assess cumulative environmental burden and its impact on cardiovascular risk factors and diseases.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateNov 15, 2023

New process for screening old urine samples reveals previously undetected ‘designer drugs’

Researchers developed a more efficient way to find emerging designer drugs in urine samples, uncovering new synthetic opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants that evaded initial screening. The approach can support public health and safety by enabling swift identification of new substances.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 15, 2023

Exposure to air pollution in utero may affect reproductive system development

Research from Rutgers University found that air pollution during critical periods of prenatal and early infant development may negatively alter anogenital distance, a measure of hormone exposure. Higher levels of particulate matter (PM2.5) were associated with shorter anogenital length at birth and in males at age one.

SourceRutgers University·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2023

Engineering bacteria to biosynthesize intricate protein complexes

Researchers developed an innovative bioengineering approach using genetically modified bacteria to incorporate protein cages around protein crystals. This method efficiently produces highly customized protein complexes for specialized applications. The resulting crystals have a core-shell structure with a cubic PhC core covered in five...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2023

How could global food production break down?

A new analysis by Aalto University reveals that industrial agriculture is highly sensitive to shocks in agricultural inputs such as synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. The study models the impacts of these shocks on crop yields and food availability globally, identifying high-risk areas for the greatest yield losses.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Food·DateNov 15, 2023

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai secures $5 million NIH grant for cutting-edge cancer target discovery and development center

The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai has been awarded a $5 million NIH grant to establish a state-of-the-art center dedicated to discovering and developing novel therapeutic targets for cancer therapy. The Center will utilize cutting-edge technologies and interdisciplinary collaborations to accelerate the translation of scientif...

Pain scores, age can help identify patients more likely to use few or no opioids after surgery

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that younger patients and those with no prior experience with opioids are more likely to use few or no opioids after surgery. The researchers used data collected through automated text messages sent to 3,600 patients who underwent common surgical procedures.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Surgery Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 15, 2023

Multiple evolutionary trajectories in aquatic crocodiles

Researchers at the University of Liège used 3D modeling to analyze the evolutionary trajectories of thalattosuchians and dyrosaurs, two species that colonized marine environments independently. The study reveals significant differences in adaptations and functional capacities between these groups and present-day crocodiles.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalPalaeontology·DateNov 15, 2023

More than 10% of samples from a stool-based colorectal cancer test may be unsatisfactory

A study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found that over 10% of fecal immunochemical tests used for routine colorectal cancer screening contained unsatisfactory samples. This led to fewer than half of patients completing follow-up testing within 15 months. The authors suggest potential solutions to improve comp...

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention·DateNov 15, 2023

7 countries, 1.3 million lives lost – the devastating impact of tobacco revealed

A new study funded by Cancer Research UK reveals that smoking tobacco causes 20.8 million years of life loss each year, with four preventable risk factors contributing to over 30 million years of life lost annually. The study suggests that action on a global scale could save millions of lives from preventable cancers.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 15, 2023

Why it’s important to improve communication of unanticipated genomic findings to patients with late-stage cancer

A qualitative study by City of Hope highlights the importance of proper patient preparation for unanticipated, inheritable genetic findings prior to tumor sequencing. The research emphasizes the need for scalable educational interventions that facilitate informed consent, such as online tools and applications.

SourceCity of Hope·JournalGenetics in Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateNov 15, 2023

New ‘patch’ uses natural body motion to fix disc herniation

Researchers developed 'tension-activated repair patches' that release anti-inflammatory molecules, helping discs regain tension and reverse herniation. The patch uses natural biomechanical movement to activate its release, offering a potential early intervention for preventing worsening pain related to disc degeneration.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 15, 2023

The liking gap is real for second language English speakers, new Concordia research shows

Researchers found that second language English speakers underestimate how much they are liked by others, with females underestimating their speaking skills even more. This 'liking gap' can limit beneficial interactions and hinder meaningful relationships, potentially affecting students' academic and social integration at universities.

SourceConcordia University·JournalLanguages·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 15, 2023

Focus groups can work without a moderator, shows research

A novel 'remotely-moderated' focus group method has been developed and tested, where questions are posed on a screen and moderated by an off-site researcher. This approach encourages participants to go beyond their usual role and engage in frank discussion, revealing valuable insights into issues they may not have considered before.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalQualitative Research in Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2023

Fourth dose of COVID vaccine boosts protection in patients with rheumatic disease

A new study suggests that a fourth dose of the mRNA vaccine significantly reduces risk of infection and severe COVID-19 in patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases. The study found a 41% reduction in risk for infection and 65% reduction for admission/death compared to those who did not receive a fourth dose.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalThe Lancet Rheumatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 15, 2023

An engineered protein enhances memory

Researchers have developed an engineered LIMK1 protein that can be activated by administering the drug rapamycin, resulting in improved memory function. This innovative approach has great potential applications in understanding memory processes and facilitating the identification of solutions for neuropsychiatric diseases.

SourceUniversita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2023

New studies of brain activity explain benefits of electroconvulsive therapy

Researchers propose a new hypothesis that ECT alleviates depression symptoms by increasing aperiodic activity in the brain. Aperiodic activity helps boost inhibitory activity, slowing down neuronal cycles and effectively controlling how neurons turn on and off. The studies also found similar effects in magnetic seizure therapy.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateNov 15, 2023

Novel C. diff structures are required for infection, offer new therapeutic targets

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center discovered iron storage 'spheres' inside C. diff bacteria, which are crucial for infection and offer new targets for antibacterial drugs. The study, published in Nature, also reveals that bacteria may compartmentalize biochemical processes in a way similar to eukaryotic cells.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2023

On two small islands in the Indian Ocean, an endangered palm with the world’s largest seed sows a lesson about landscape restoration

A study on the endangered coco de mer palm tree found that inbreeding depression may not be a major threat to its survival, contrary to previous assumptions. The researchers discovered that female trees prefer closely related kin to sire their offspring, suggesting outbreeding depression as a possible issue.

Marijuana component offers opioid alternative by effectively treating dental pain

A study published in the Journal of Dental Research found that cannabidiol (CBD) reduces dental pain intensity by 70% and improves bite force. While side effects occurred more frequently than placebo, promising results suggest CBD may be an effective alternative to opioid painkillers for managing acute toothache.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Dental Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 15, 2023

Data gap in SARS-CoV-2 cases in animals

A recent study by the Complexity Science Hub found that at least two-thirds of animal COVID-19 deaths were not reported to official sources. The researchers compiled a comprehensive list of 35 animal species susceptible to SARS-CoV-2, highlighting the need for improved data exchange and reporting.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalOne Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 15, 2023

Webb follows neon signs toward new thinking on planet formation

The James Webb Space Telescope has detected distinct neon signatures in the dusty disk surrounding the young Sun-like star SZ Chamaelontis, indicating a change in high-energy radiation that reaches the disk and limits planet formation time. This difference points to a variable wind absorbing UV light and leaving X-rays to pummel the disk.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 15, 2023

Colored by numbers? Pack images get tick of approval to make product varieties stand out

New research from the University of South Australia found that images are more effective at signaling product variety than colors, with only 56% of color choices matching customer expectations. The study analyzed consumer perceptions of 576 products and recommended using images to convey variety and protecting master brand colors.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Journal of Market Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 15, 2023

A new kind of magnetism

Researchers at ETH Zurich detected a new type of ferromagnetism in an artificially produced material, where magnetic moments align due to kinetic energy minimization. The material exhibits ferromagnetic behavior when electrons form 'doublons' and spread out through quantum mechanical tunnelling.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateNov 15, 2023

Transplant researchers develop vaccine in preclinical models to regulate immune responses to prevent kidney and heart transplant rejection

A team of researchers developed a vaccine that stimulates regulatory T cells to suppress harmful immune cells, prolonging allograft survival in mice. This discovery identifies an analogous pathway in humans, suggesting potential treatment for autoimmune disorders and organ transplant patients.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2023

Female MP pioneers lost unique appeal to voters because of increasing party control over campaigning, study shows

Research suggests that early women parliamentary candidates struggled to make distinct appeals as parties increasingly controlled campaigning. The study examines how mass observation surveys and election addresses reveal the challenges faced by female politicians during the early decades of mass democracy.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGender & History·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 15, 2023

ASTRO issues patient-centered clinical guideline on partial breast irradiation for early-stage invasive breast cancer and DCIS

A new ASTRO clinical guideline recommends partial breast irradiation as a viable alternative to whole breast radiation for patients with early-stage invasive breast cancer or DCIS, based on evidence from large randomized trials. The guideline provides guidance on patient selection and best practices for delivering effective partial bre...

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateNov 15, 2023

The Future of Future Earth: How global science programs can navigate the complex, shifting challenges in sustainability science

The Future Earth program has faced challenges in inspiring groundbreaking research to address major sustainability issues, including a lack of engagement with the global science community. The program's 'top-down approach' neglects local communities' needs and prevents swift responses.

SourceEcosystem Health and Sustainability·JournalEcosystem Health and Sustainability·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 15, 2023

Precision medicine improves survival outcomes for patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer with BRCA gene alterations

Researchers found that monotherapy with PARP inhibitor olaparib improved radiographic progression-free survival and overall survival in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer who have BRCA gene mutations. Improved responses were observed in hereditary BRCA mutations as well as spontaneous alterations.

SourceVall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateNov 15, 2023

Women with breast cancer take sexual health into their own hands

A study published in PLOS ONE found that 35% of women with breast cancer used self-discovered or peer-recommended techniques to enhance their sexual function. These techniques fell into four main domains: pain reduction, intimacy and relationship enhancement, desire and arousal enhancement, and emotional coping.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateNov 15, 2023

Clearing mangroves makes ‘muddification’ worse

A new study found that removing mangroves in New Zealand's estuaries actually increases mud build-up, as these coastal trees and shrubs trap sediment efficiently. This highlights the need for sustainable land use upstream to address the root cause of the issue, rather than focusing solely on mangrove removal.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 15, 2023

Association of molecular subtypes in bladder cancer with response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, progression, and survival

Researchers found a modest improvement in predicting pathologic response to chemotherapy using molecular subtypes, but no association with overall survival and progression-free survival. The study suggests the need for subtype-directed therapy trials to test targeted treatments.

SourceSWOG Cancer Research Network·JournalClinical Cancer Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 15, 2023

Reforms needed to expand prescribed burns

Prescribed fire can improve forest health and reduce catastrophic wildfires, but barriers hinder its use. Four strategies can overcome these obstacles: fostering a supportive culture, providing dedicated funding, building capacity and cooperation, and implementing monitoring and adaptive management.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 15, 2023