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Science News for April 23, 2024


New study points to racial and social barriers that block treatment for multiple myeloma

A recent study by the University of California - Davis Health found that racial and social barriers significantly impact access to autoHCT, a key bone marrow transplant treatment for multiple myeloma. Despite having higher rates of cancer development compared to other groups, Black patients received lower proportions of the transplant ...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalClinical Lymphoma Myeloma & Leukemia·DateApr 23, 2024

New toolkit makes molecular dynamics simulations more accessible!

Researchers have developed PaCS-Toolkit to facilitate accessible parallel cascade selection MD (PaCS-MD) simulations. The software package automates the simulation process via a single configuration file, allowing users to explore different conformations and investigate molecular interactions more efficiently.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2024

Asian monsoon lofts ozone-depleting substances to stratosphere

Research reveals that the East Asian Monsoon delivers high levels of pollutants to the upper atmosphere, where they can influence the climate system. The findings raise questions about the pace of ozone layer recovery and highlight the need for further research into the implications of these pollutants.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2024

Hidden biosphere beneath world’s driest hot desert

Researchers found microbial communities in Atacama Desert soil, dominated by Actinobacteria and possibly relying on gypsum for water. The discovery hints at a previously unknown deep biosphere under hyper-arid desert soils, with potential implications for the search for extraterrestrial life.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateApr 23, 2024

Excessive pregnancy weight gain and substantial postpartum weight retention common in military health care beneficiaries

A new study finds that military health care beneficiaries are more prone to excessive pregnancy weight gain and substantial postpartum weight retention, leading to costly complications and fitness challenges. Researchers emphasize the importance of weight management before, during, and after pregnancy for military populations.

SourceThe Obesity Society·JournalObesity·DateApr 23, 2024

There’s no ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to addressing men’s health issues globally

Research from the University of Notre Dame finds that life transitions and global health policies for men vary across communities, with differing effects on physical and mental health. Men's life expectancy lags behind women's, and health interventions should focus on individual needs and cultural contexts.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 23, 2024

Green intelligent fertilizers promote green and sustainable development of fertilizer industry and agriculture

Researchers propose green intelligent fertilizers to address the gap between fertilizer industry and agriculture, promoting eco-friendly practices and maximizing nutrient utilization. The new fertilizers aim to improve crop yield, quality, and nutritional balance while minimizing environmental footprint.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2024

FDA approves immunotherapy drug combo for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer after UCLA-led research shows improved outcomes for patients

The FDA has approved the use of N-803, an immunotherapy drug, in combination with BCG for treating patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer who did not respond to conventional treatment. The approval is based on a trial led by UCLA's Dr. Karim Chamie, which showed improved outcomes and longer overall survival rates.

Squids’ birthday influences mating

Research found that male spear squid's mating tactic is determined by their birthdate, with earlier-born squids adopting a 'consort' strategy and later-born squids using 'sneaking' tactics. This study suggests that environmental conditions at birth may impact growth trajectory and reproductive success.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateApr 23, 2024

Fruit fly pest meets its evolutionary match in parasitic wasp

A parasitic wasp has evolved to perfectly target a common fruit fly pest, demonstrating key principles of ecologically driven evolution. The Trichopria drosophilae wasp overcomes the pest's defenses by producing venom and specialized cells that speed up digestion and increase nutrition for its young.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateApr 23, 2024

Smoking cessation before laryngeal cancer treatment improves survival, retention of voice box, study shows

Patients who quit smoking before starting chemotherapy or radiation responded better to treatment, were less likely to need their voice boxes surgically removed, and lived significantly longer than those who continued to smoke. Quitting smoking also improved quality of life for seven years after treatment.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalOtolaryngology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 23, 2024

Unveiling the molecular functions of lipid droplet proteins in Arabidopsis thaliana leaves

A study published in Frontiers in Plant Science reveals that leaf lipid droplets contain myosin-binding proteins and enzymes associated with furan-containing fatty acid biosynthesis. This discovery paves the way for future research into leaf lipid droplet functions, potentially leading to advancements in lipid production technology.

SourceChiba University·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2024

Long-term taste and smell outcomes after COVID-19

Researchers found that objective taste dysfunction disappeared one year after COVID-19 exposure, while nearly a third of individuals experienced lasting smell loss. Infection with Alpha variants was associated with the greatest degree of smell loss, highlighting a potential link between variant types and symptom severity.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 23, 2024

Social media affects people’s views on mental illness

A study found that subtle differences in social media messages can influence young people's beliefs about depression and anxiety. Participants who read growth mindset tweets were more optimistic about treatment, while those reading fixed mindset tweets felt the conditions were more stable.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2024

Bacteria for climate-neutral chemicals of the future

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new method to produce chemicals using bacteria that feed on methanol, a renewable resource. The microbes can efficiently convert methanol into desired biochemical substances, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil-based chemicals.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Catalysis·DateApr 23, 2024

China's leap into low-altitude airspace management: a journey toward integrated UAS operations

China is revolutionizing low-altitude airspace management by integrating unmanned aerial systems (UAS), promoting efficient and safe operations. The country's advancements in UAS technology and regulatory frameworks aim to set international standards for unmanned aviation, transforming the nation's aviation industry.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2024

Aerogel-based PCMs improve thermal management, reduce microwave emissions in electronic devices

Researchers developed aerogel-based composite phase change materials (PCMs) to address thermal management, solar-thermal conversion, and microwave absorption issues in electronic devices. The composites showed over 90% absorption of broadband light and converted solar energy into thermal energy with a greater than 95% efficiency.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateApr 23, 2024

A non-equivalent co-doped strategy to effectively improve the electrical properties of BIT-based high-temperature piezoelectric ceramics

Researchers develop non-equivalent co-doped strategy to reduce oxygen vacancy defects and improve comprehensive electrical properties of BIT-based high-temperature piezoelectric ceramics. The study reveals a significant enhancement in piezoelectric coefficient, Curie temperature, and resistivity at high temperatures.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateApr 23, 2024

The move by Apple Memories to block potentially upsetting content illustrates Big Tech’s reach and limits, writes Chrys Vilvang

A Concordia PhD candidate argues that tech companies' opaque algorithms for storing and sharing personal content raise questions about selection and representation. An Apple update blocking Holocaust-themed photos in the iPhone Photos app's Memories sparked a debate among users, with some expressing annoyance at being told what to see.

SourceConcordia University·JournalMemory Mind & Media·TypeContent analysis·DateApr 23, 2024

Towards sustainable food systems: global initiatives and innovations

A three-step approach is proposed to address global hunger and hidden hunger by focusing on calorie needs, high-quality protein, and emission reduction. The study suggests optimizing crop and livestock cycles, introducing novel foods like insect-based products and lab-grown meats, and enhancing global trade and spatial planning.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2024

Majority of acute care hospitals do not admit representative proportion of Black Medicare patients in their local market

A study analyzing Medicare admissions at nearly 2,000 acute care hospitals nationwide found that most hospitals admitted a significantly different proportion of Black fee-for-service Medicare patients compared to the surrounding hospital market. Hospitals admitting fewer Black patients may have lower care quality.

Magnetic microcoils unlock targeted single-neuron therapies for neurodegenerative disorders

Researchers have developed a magnetic coil array called MagPatch that can stimulate individual neurons with precision. The device uses soft magnetic materials to boost the magnetic field, reducing the need for high current levels.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Vacuum Science & Technology B Microelectronics and Nanometer Structures Processing Measurement and Phenomena·DateApr 23, 2024

Comparison of the “late catch-up” phenomenon between BuMA Supreme and XIENCE stents through serial optical coherence tomography at 1–2 month and 2 year follow-ups: A multicenter study

The multicenter study found that the BuMA Supreme stent showed faster re-endothelization with no 'late catch-up' phenomenon compared to the XIENCE stent. This results in decreased dual antiplatelet therapy duration, potentially benefiting patients with coronary artery disease and high bleeding risk.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateApr 23, 2024

Synthesizing π-extended carbohelicene-based circularly polarized luminescence emitters

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a new strategy to synthesize 3D π-extended carbohelicenes, overcoming molecular distortions and achieving CPL brightness of up to 513 M–1 cm–1. The study provides a solid groundwork for further research and development of high-performance carbohelicenes.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Synthesis·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2024

Gut microbiota acts like an auxiliary liver

A new study reveals that gut microbiota significantly impacts host amino acid and glucose metabolism, leading to a second liver-like function. The research identifies specific bacterial metabolic genes responsible for depleting amino acids, which can be targeted to treat conditions such as type 2 diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateApr 23, 2024

Dedication to a research journey towards commercial aqueous batteries

XIE Congxin, a researcher at Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, has made significant progress in improving the energy density of aqueous batteries. He developed a multi-electron transfer cathode based on bromine and iodine with a specific capacity exceeding 840 Ah/L. The full battery test showed an energy density of 1200 Wh/L.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Energy·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 23, 2024

Loma Linda University study reveals alarming rates of pediatric injuries from mechanical bull riding

A new study by Loma Linda University reveals that mechanical bull riding is a real public health concern, especially for young riders. The study found that traumatic brain injuries are the most common outcome, and long-term consequences can be severe, including memory issues and learning disabilities.

Researchers at IOCB Prague develop a new method for enzymatic synthesis of potential RNA therapeutics

Researchers at IOCB Prague have developed a novel method for preparing ribonucleic acid (RNA) containing modified bases using engineered DNA polymerases. This opens the door to applications in chemical biology and therapeutic applications, including mRNA drugs.

Women’s heart disease is underdiagnosed, but new machine learning models can help solve this problem

Researchers built more accurate cardiovascular risk models using machine learning, finding that women are underdiagnosed due to sex-neutral criteria. The study used the UK Biobank dataset and found that electrocardiogram (EKG) tests were most effective in improving detection of cardiovascular disease in both men and women.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 23, 2024

New research develops forest extent map for Mexico

A team of researchers from the University of Delaware developed a forest extent agreement map for Mexico, combining seven remote sensing products and two independent datasets to identify consensus areas of agreement. The study found high agreement in heavily forested areas and disagreement in complex ecological zones.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 23, 2024

Bioluminescence first evolved in animals at least 540 million years ago

A recent study by the Smithsonian has pushed back the earliest dated origin of bioluminescence in animals by nearly 300 million years, dating it to around 540 million years ago in marine invertebrates called octocorals. The ability to produce light is involved in various behaviors such as camouflage, courtship, and hunting.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 23, 2024

SMART researchers pioneer sensor multiplexing for real-time decoding of different plant stresses

SMART researchers develop a nanosensor that selectively detects salicylic acid in live plants, vital for stress response. The sensor combines sensors for H₂O₂ and salicylic acid, enabling simultaneous monitoring of plant hormones and aiding in early diagnoses to improve crop resilience.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2024

Researchers develop high-energy-density aqueous battery based on halogen multi-electron transfer

A new type of aqueous battery is developed with a specific capacity of over 840 Ah/L and an energy density of up to 1200 Wh/L. The battery uses a mixed halogen solution as the electrolyte, enabling a multi-electron transfer reaction that improves kinetic and reversibility.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Energy·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 23, 2024

Innovative GREENSKY model elevates UAV efficiency in next-gen wireless networks

The GREENSKY model significantly enhances the energy efficiency of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in cellular networks by optimizing charging behavior and routing processes. This results in a 9.1% reduction in energy consumption compared to traditional heuristic solutions.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2024

Dengue fever infections have negative impacts on infant health for three years – study

Research found that babies born to mothers infected with dengue fever during pregnancy had lower birth weights and a higher risk of extremely low birth weight. Additionally, children whose mothers were infected had a increased risk of hospitalization from birth to age three, particularly in their second year of life.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalAmerican Economic Journal Applied Economics·DateApr 23, 2024

Undiscovered diversity of Micropsalliota: Seven new species and one newly recorded species in southern China

Researchers have identified seven new Micropsalliota species and one newly recorded species in southern China, resolving previously unresolved phylogenetic relationships. The study provides an updated key for the species distributed in China, highlighting the importance of further investigations into macrofungi in the region.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalMycology: An International Journal on Fungal Biology·DateApr 23, 2024

Q&A: UW research shows neural connection between learning a second language and learning to code

The study reveals that experienced programmers exhibit brain responses similar to those of fluent readers processing sentences, indicating a strong resemblance between learning computer and natural languages. The research suggests that understanding how people learn to code can be informed by expertise in second-language learning.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 23, 2024

Genetics predict type 2 diabetes risk and disparities in childhood cancer survivors

Researchers identified four genetic variants associated with increased type 2 diabetes risk in childhood cancer survivors. The findings also showed that polygenic risk scores derived from diverse ancestry datasets were more informative in assessing diabetes risk in survivors of both European and African ancestries, highlighting the imp...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 23, 2024

The consumption of certain food additive emulsifiers could be associated with the risk of developing type 2 diabetes

A large French study found a link between chronic exposure to certain emulsifiers and increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The researchers analyzed data from over 104,000 adults and observed an association with several emulsifiers.

Fossil frogs share their skincare secrets

Researchers at University College Cork discovered fossil frogs with preserved skin remnants, shedding light on their adaptation to life on land. The study found that the excellent preservation of the fossils is due to the replication of ancient skin structures in calcium phosphate.

SourceUniversity College Cork·JournalScientific Reports·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 23, 2024

Marginalized communities developed 'disaster subculture' when living through extreme climate events, study finds

Residents in a Seoul, South Korea neighborhood have developed a 'disaster subculture' due to frequent extreme heat and cold, showing social welfare has a role to play in addressing climate issues. The study highlights the importance of understanding the lived experiences of marginalized communities to address their specific needs.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalInternational Journal of Social Welfare·TypeObservational study·DateApr 23, 2024

Higher light levels may improve cognitive performance

Research found that higher light levels increase activity in the posterior hypothalamus, leading to improved cognitive performance during executive tasks. In contrast, lower light levels decreased activity in this region, negatively correlating with cognitive performance.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateApr 23, 2024

A roadmap for digital neuroscience

The position paper identifies eight key areas for digital neuroscience research, including near-term, middle-term, and long-term goals. It also discusses the potential of 'digital twin' approaches, ultra-high-resolution digital atlases, and neuro-derived AI and computing innovations.

SourceEBRAINS·JournalImaging Neuroscience·DateApr 23, 2024