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Science News for November 20, 2023


Nostalgia and memories after ten years of social media

A study from the University of Gothenburg and University West found that social media users engage in 'nostalgizing' to relive memories and emotions. The platforms' advanced features, such as personalized photo albums and reminders, facilitate nostalgic experiences, leading to a decrease in new content posting.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalSocial Media + Society·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2023

Study reveals gaps in fracture risk communication and patients’ preferences for visual representation

A new study has found that most patients with osteoporosis want to receive information on their fracture risk, but only half of them actually get it. Patients prefer visual representations, such as graphs with a colored traffic-light system, to communicate fracture risk and are more likely to take medication if presented in this way.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 20, 2023

University of Helsinki researchers solve cosmic conundrum

Researchers Till Sawala and Peter Johansson propose that frequent interactions and mergers within the Supergalactic Plane lead to elliptical galaxies, while isolation outside the plane preserves spiral structure. The team's simulation is consistent with observations, supporting the standard model of dark matter.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 20, 2023

Predicting the response of fungal genes using FUN-PROSE

The study used a machine learning approach called FUN-PROSE to predict how fungi react to different environmental conditions. The model was able to accurately predict the expression of genes in baker's yeast and two less studied fungi, with limitations noted for organisms with more complex gene regulation.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 20, 2023

Additively manufactured Ti-Ta-Cu alloys: A potential replacement of Ti6Al4V for the next-generation load-bearing implants

Researchers have developed additively manufactured Ti-Ta-Cu alloys that exhibit improved biocompatibility and bacterial resistance, making them a promising alternative to traditional Ti6Al4V implants. The alloys were found to display remarkable synergistic effects in improving both in vivo biocompatibility and microbial resistance.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateNov 20, 2023

C-sections in Mexico increase with obesity level and health care specialization

A study from the University of Illinois found a correlation between high obesity levels at hospitals and increased C-section rates in Mexico. The researchers analyzed patient data from 226 public hospitals across Mexico, finding that hospitals with higher obesity rates were more likely to perform C-sections.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalThe World Bank Economic Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2023

Predicting the molecular functions of regulatory genetic variants associated with cancer

Researchers discuss a new approach integrating genomic, epigenomic, transcriptomic, and machine learning methods to identify functional genetic variants and characterize their mode of action in regulating target genes. This method aims to improve understanding of disease etiology and prioritize causative inherited genetic variants.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2023

Anti-bias police training improved performance and reduced discrimination-based complaints significantly

A new study found that anti-bias training significantly improved police performance scores and reduced discrimination-based complaints. Officers who received the training had a small but significant increase in performance scores and a 50% reduction in complaints compared to those who did not receive training.

SourceCrime and Justice Research Alliance·JournalPolicing An International Journal·DateNov 20, 2023

Trend report: High blood pressure increasing in low-income adults; diabetes and obesity on the rise in higher-income adults

A study of over 20,000 middle-aged US adults found lower income status linked to increased hypertension risk. Higher-income adults faced rising rates of diabetes and obesity. Targeted public health initiatives are needed to address growing cardiovascular mortality among middle-aged adults.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateNov 20, 2023

Remarkably detailed view of “teenage galaxies” from just 2 to 3 billion years after the Big Bang revealed by JWST

Astronomers using the JWST have created the deepest spectrum of a distant galaxy ever seen, revealing the presence of eight distinct elements including nickel. The study helps scientists understand how galaxies mature and evolve over time, with surprising findings on the chemical composition of ancient galaxies.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeObservational study·DateNov 20, 2023

People watched other people shake boxes for science. Here’s why

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that people can quickly identify another person's epistemic goals by watching their actions. This study reveals a key aspect of human cognition with implications for artificial intelligence. The team discovered that observers could accurately determine whether someone was trying to learn so...

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 20, 2023

Perfecting the performance of nerve implants

Nerve damage can lead to severe and long-lasting effects, including depression. Researchers have developed new technology to repair and reconstruct damaged nerves using simple electrical circuitry in implants. This innovation has the potential to benefit people with injuries and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalBioelectromagnetics·TypeObservational study·DateNov 20, 2023

Infertility and risk of autism spectrum disorder in children

A study of 1.3 million Canadian children found a higher risk of autism spectrum disorder in those born to parents with infertility. The research suggests that certain obstetrical and neonatal factors may contribute to this increased risk, highlighting the need for further exploration of these factors in individuals with infertility.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 20, 2023

Critically endangered Australian dolphins suffering highest known levels of toxic pollutants

A recent study by RMIT University and the Marine Mammal Foundation has revealed alarming concentrations of PFAS chemicals in Burrunan dolphins off the coast of Melbourne and Gippsland, south-east Australia. The findings are the highest reported globally, with one juvenile dolphin found to have a PFAS liver concentration of 19,500 nanog...

SourceRMIT University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 20, 2023

Mental health of surfers creates US$1trillion wave for economy

A new study by Griffith University and Andrés Bello University found that surfing contributes significantly to the global economy by improving mental health, with benefits estimated to be valued at ~US$1.0–3.3 billion per year on the Gold Coast. The mental health benefits from surfing comprise 57–74% of the total economic benefits of s...

SourceGriffith University·Journalnpj Ocean Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2023

Younger people are more vulnerable to the effects of cardiovascular risk associated with high blood cholesterol and hypertension

A new study reveals that younger people are more vulnerable to the effects of high blood cholesterol and hypertension, atherosclerosis can be reversed if risk factors are controlled early enough. The study suggests aggressive control of cardiovascular risk factors at younger ages.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 20, 2023

Calls for improved support about menstruation changes during perimenopause

A new study highlights how perimenopausal women's periods may become unpredictable, heavy, and cause worse premenstrual symptoms. The research suggests that improved education and support are needed to manage these changes, including extra support in the workplace, emotional support from loved ones, and access to support groups.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPost Reproductive Health·TypeSurvey·DateNov 20, 2023

Study finds possible early predictor of successful transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy for major depression

A new study from UCLA Health researchers demonstrates that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is effective in most patients with major depressive symptoms, starting to alleviate symptoms as quickly as one week. The treatment was found to be associated with a significant response rate of 54% of patients, with early impr...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalPsychiatry Research·TypeObservational study·DateNov 20, 2023

From waste to wealth: Transforming biomass into humic acid with two-step hydrothermal process via hydrochar

Researchers developed a two-step hydrothermal method to transform biomass waste into humic acid, increasing efficiency and reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. The study optimized acidic hydrothermal humification conditions and explored the mechanism of action affecting humification ability in alkaline hydrothermal treatment.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 20, 2023

Liver cancer rates increase in each successive generation of Mexican Americans, study finds

A study by the Keck School of Medicine of USC found that liver cancer risk increases with each successive generation of Mexican Americans, particularly among men. The research analyzed data from over 30,000 participants and found third-generation Mexicans to be 66% more likely to develop liver cancer than first-generation individuals.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalCancer·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 20, 2023

A stronger core for better plant breeding

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have developed a new software tool called CoreDetector to improve plant breeding through enhanced genome-sequencing powers. The tool can efficiently handle large and evolutionary diverse genomes, allowing for more resilient crops in a changing climate.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalBioinformatics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 20, 2023

Proof of concept of new material for long lasting relief from dry mouth conditions

A novel aqueous lubricant technology has been developed at the University of Leeds, providing a longer-lasting solution for people with dry mouth conditions. The substance, composed of microgel and hydrogel, binds strongly to the surface of the mouth, reducing desorption and offering up to five times more effective relief.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2023

Research scientists produce a global overview of road transportation of industrial roundwood

The study found significant variation in maximum allowable GVW limits for timber trucking across countries, with Japan having the strictest limits. Road transport accounted for 89% of total industrial roundwood moved over long distances, and average transportation costs ranged from 4-24 euros per tonne. The results highlight the need f...

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalCroatian journal of forest engineering·DateNov 20, 2023

First comprehensive look at effects of 2020-2021 California megafires on terrestrial wildlife habitat

Researchers investigated the effects of megafires on California's wildlife habitat, analyzing over 600 species. They found that high-severity fires impacted 100 species, with 16 considered conservation concern, yet some species may find refuge in unaffected habitats.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Rocky Mountain Research Station·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 20, 2023

Miniature colons with immune components aid the study of intestinal diseases

Researchers at MUSC and Cincinnati Children's have developed a novel colon organoid model with naturally occurring immune cells. The model has the potential to improve treatment outcomes for colon-related diseases such as cancer and IBD by providing a more complete human organoid system that can be used to model inflammation in the colon.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 20, 2023

Alarming rates of suicidal ideation among older transgender adults revealed on Transgender Day of Remembrance

A recent study reveals that over one-quarter of older transgender adults have seriously contemplated ending their lives, highlighting the urgent need for targeted support and interventions. The study found that experiencing challenges in areas such as workplace issues and personal safety significantly increased the odds of contemplatin...

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalAging & Mental Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 20, 2023

Our cerebellar nuclei turn out to be more important than initially thought

Researchers discovered that cerebellar nuclei make a surprising contribution to associative learning by strengthening connections with mossy fibers. Optogenetic experiments also showed that the nuclei can support well-timed learning. The study's findings have implications for understanding cerebellum function and potential treatments f...

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 20, 2023

AI-powered crab gender identification: revolutionizing fishery management and conservation

A deep learning model developed by Tokyo University of Science researchers can accurately identify horsehair crab genders, enhancing conservation and farming efforts. The AI approach achieves high precision in classification, even when observing shell side, and could be applied to other species.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 20, 2023

The sound of injustice: Inequitable urban noise impacts people, wildlife

A study by Colorado State University found that redlined communities experience higher maximum noise levels, detrimental effects on urban ecosystems, and increased human health risks like hearing loss and stress. The research highlights the need for equitable planning and noise mitigation to benefit both people and wildlife.

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 20, 2023

Two conductors of a chemical reaction

Researchers have successfully observed the operating principle of promoters in a catalytic reaction in real-time. Using high-tech microscopy methods, they visualized individual La atoms' role in hydrogen oxidation. The study revealed that two surface areas of the catalyst act as pacemakers, controlled by promoter lanthanum.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 20, 2023

AI reads “pandemic” as “healthy living” and “endemic” as “travel”

A recent study found that during stringent COVID-19 periods, online searches surged in the health and daily life category. As government policies relaxed, searches shifted towards duty-free and travel-related products. The research team applied PCA to Big Data of internet search activity volume data from NAVER DataLab platform.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalHumanities and Social Sciences Communications·DateNov 20, 2023

In many major crop regions, workers plant and harvest in spiraling heat and humidity

A global study reveals that farmworkers in major crop regions are facing increasing exposure to extreme heat and humidity, which can impair their ability to function. The most affected crops are rice and maize, with nearly half of the world's rice cropland already experiencing extreme conditions during the planting and harvest seasons.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalEnvironmental Research Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 20, 2023

Analysis of cyberstalking research identifies factors associated with perpetration, victimization

A new study analyzing cyberstalking research identified sociodemographic and background factors as the largest contributors to perpetration and victimization. The findings highlight the need for targeted prevention strategies considering overlap between offline violence and cyberviolence. Experts emphasize the importance of allocating ...

SourceCrime and Justice Research Alliance·JournalJournal of Criminal Justice·DateNov 20, 2023

Potential therapeutic target found to combat tuberculosis, a disrupted NAD(H) homeostasis

A recent study published in Nature Communications reveals that disrupted NAD(H) homeostasis is a key factor in tuberculosis pathogenesis. The researchers found that the glycolytic pathway can be selectively inhibited using an LDH enzyme with mostly LDHA subunits, which preferentially converts pyruvate to lactate and NADH to NAD+.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 20, 2023

“Triple star” discovery could revolutionise understanding of stellar evolution

Research by University of Leeds scientists has found evidence that massive Be stars may exist in triple systems, challenging current theories on their formation. The discovery could have significant impacts on our understanding of black holes, neutron stars, and gravitational wave sources.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateNov 20, 2023

What leads people to take action on disease prevention?

A study published in the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction found that individuals' behavior to prevent disease spread depends on their personal information sources and living situation. The researchers discovered a strong link between medical information consumption before the outbreak and mask-wearing behaviors, while s...

SourceOsaka University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·TypeObservational study·DateNov 20, 2023

Progress in wastewater treatment via organic supramolecular photocatalysts under sunlight

Researchers developed new supramolecular and polymeric organic photocatalytic systems to enhance light utilization efficiency and mineralization under solar light. The new system combines in situ H2O2 generation with in situ Fenton reaction, achieving high-flux mineralization under visible light without additional oxidants.

Massive 2022 eruption reduced ozone levels

The study found that the eruption changed the chemistry and dynamics of the stratosphere, leading to unprecedented losses in the ozone layer. The injection of water vapor and sulfur dioxide increased sulfate aerosols, which drove changes in temperature and circulation, resulting in decreased ozone levels in the Southern Hemisphere.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 20, 2023