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Science News for April 25, 2024


Living at higher altitudes in India linked to increased risk of childhood stunting

Research published in BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health found that living at higher altitudes in India increases the risk of childhood stunting. Children living above 2000m are 40% more likely to be stunted than those below 1000m. Mother's education and access to healthcare also play a crucial role in preventing stunting.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health·TypeObservational study·DateApr 25, 2024

Anthropologist documents how women and shepherds historically reduced wildfire risk in Central Italy

In Central Italy, traditional land management practices like leaf litter raking and sheep grazing reduced wildfire risk. However, these practices have been largely forgotten due to historical classism and sexism. The research highlights the importance of remembering these ancient practices in mitigating future wildfires.

Future parents more likely to get RSV vaccine when pregnant if aware that RSV can be a serious illness in infants

A nationwide survey found that pregnant people are more likely to receive the RSV vaccine if they believe the virus can be a serious illness in infants. The study also shows that parents with an existing child at home are more likely to get vaccinated, highlighting the importance of awareness and education.

Genetic variations may predispose people to Parkinson’s disease following long-term pesticide exposure, study finds

A new study found that genetic variants in lysosomal genes may contribute to the development of Parkinson's disease in individuals exposed to high levels of pesticides. The research suggests a potential gene-environment interaction, where minor changes in these genes can lead to increased disease risk under stress.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·Journalnpj Parkinson s Disease·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 25, 2024

Recent progress of narrowband perovskite photodetectors: fundamental physics and strategies

Narrowband perovskite photodetectors have achieved excellent detection performance with half-peak full-widths of 10-50 nm, opening up new opportunities for multispectral detection. The development of new strategies, such as charge collection narrowing effect and surface roughening effect, has improved their performance.

SourceAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·JournalAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·TypeNews article·DateApr 25, 2024

Shoulder surgeons should rethink a common practice, study suggests

A recent study suggests that removing the bursa during shoulder surgery may impair the success of rotator cuff repairs. The researchers found that the bursa protects the undamaged tendon and bone by maintaining their mechanical properties and promoting healing. Retaining the bursa may prevent or delay progression of tendon degeneration.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2024

Identifying a new liver defender: The role of resident macrophages

Researchers at Osaka University discovered that certain 'sentinel macrophages' near the liver's entrance protect it against intestinal bacteria and related substances. Isoallo-lithocholic acid triggers their activation, highlighting a potential target for preventing liver inflammation and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 25, 2024

Women caregivers are stressed: Transportation infrastructure could help

A University of Michigan study found that women caregivers are 60% more likely to engage in caregiving travel on typical weekdays, leading to increased stress and decreased happiness compared to men. The researchers recommend improvements to public transportation planning to reduce this disparity and promote a more equitable society.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalTransportation Research Part D Transport and Environment·DateApr 25, 2024

A systematic review of three key sugar metabolism proteins, HXK, SnRK1 and TOR, in the regulatory network of plant growth, development and stress

The review discusses the basic functions of HXK, SnRK1 and TOR proteins, regulating plant sugar metabolism and response to stress. The study also explores regulatory networks and crosstalk among these proteins for further investigation.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2024

Scientists regenerate neural pathways in mice with cells from rats

Researchers successfully regenerated mouse brain circuits in mice using rat stem cells, offering new opportunities for restoring lost brain function due to disease and aging. The studies found that blastocyst complementation can synchronize the development of stem cells from different species with the host's brain.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2024

NTU Singapore and Temasek Polytechnic scientists replace fishmeal in aquaculture with microbial protein derived from soybean processing wastewater

Researchers at NTU Singapore and Temasek Polytechnic develop a new, sustainable feed alternative for farmed Asian seabass, reducing reliance on wild-caught fishmeal. The single cell protein is cultivated from soybean processing wastewater, offering a promising solution to the aquaculture industry's environmental challenges.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2024

Characterized extracts of the tropical red seaweed Acanthophora spicifera protect Ostrea edulis larvae against Vibrio coralliilyticus

Researchers discovered that Acanthophora spicifera extracts inhibit Vibrio coralliilyticus growth and improve survival rates in Ostrea edulis larvae. The study highlights the potential of natural compounds from seaweeds as an alternative to antibiotics for aquaculture disease control.

SourceEscuela Superior Politecnica del Litoral·JournalAquaculture·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2024

Advancing crop breeding through targeted genome modification

Targeted genome editing tools have revolutionized crop breeding methods, significantly improving breeding efficiency and precision. The latest advances in base editing, prime editing, and precise manipulation tools are expected to become critical foundational technologies for future crop research and breeding applications.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Reviews Genetics·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 25, 2024

Cancer survivors reporting loneliness experience higher mortality risk, new study shows

A new study by the American Cancer Society found that cancer survivors reporting loneliness experience a higher mortality risk compared to those with low or no loneliness. The study identified a dose-response association between loneliness levels and mortality risk, with the highest risk among those experiencing severe loneliness.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·DateApr 25, 2024

The rise of microbial cheaters in iron-limited environments

Researchers uncover evolutionary history of secreted iron uptake molecules in yeasts, revealing complex dynamics between cooperation and competition for this essential nutrient. Yeast species have developed alternative mechanisms to utilize siderophores without producing them, offering insights into the evolution of microbial strategies.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateApr 25, 2024

Curiosity promotes biodiversity

A study by Dr. Carolin Sommer-Trembo and her team found a strong correlation between exploratory behavior and habitat in African cichlid species. The researchers identified a genetic variant that makes fish more curious, which may have implications for understanding mechanisms of biodiversity and human personality.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience·DateApr 25, 2024

German study finds antibiotic use in patients hospitalised with COVID-19 appears to have no beneficial effect on clinical outcomes

A German study of over 1,300 hospitalised adults with moderate COVID-19 found that antibiotic treatment was associated with a five times greater likelihood of clinical deterioration. The researchers highlight the need for improved antibiotic stewardship interventions and rational use of antibiotics during viral pandemics.

Genetic hope in fight against devastating wheat disease

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have identified a fundamental discovery that could help reduce the economic harm caused by Fusarium head blight, a fungal disease on the rise due to climate change. The study found that the TaHRC gene functions in wheat cells and can either increase or decrease susceptibility to FHB.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 25, 2024

Psychiatric symptoms, treatment uptake, and barriers to mental health care among US adults with post–COVID-19 condition

A nationally representative study of 25,000 participants found that US adults with post-COVID-19 condition are more likely to experience depression and anxiety symptoms than the general population. Individuals with these symptoms reported higher rates of cost-related barriers to accessing mental health treatment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 25, 2024

Escape the vapes: scientists call for global shift to curb consumer use of disposable technologies

Disposable vape sales quadrupled in the UK between 2022 and 2023, contributing to e-waste accumulation. The technology contains valuable resources like lithium, but recycling is often difficult due to lack of clear instructions. Experts call for urgent reform of disposable electronics practices to protect the environment.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 25, 2024

Experts call for global genetic warning system to combat the next pandemic and antimicrobial resistance

A global genomic surveillance system using latest technologies and a 'One Health' approach can detect novel pathogens like avian influenza and antimicrobial resistance, catching epidemics before they start. This can inform vaccination campaigns, targeted treatments, and public health responses to prevent epidemics.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Science·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 25, 2024

Antimicrobial-resistant hospital infections remain at least 12% above pre-pandemic levels, major US study finds

A recent US study found that hospital-acquired antimicrobial-resistant infections increased by 32% during the COVID-19 pandemic and still exceed pre-pandemic levels. The study highlights the urgent need for solutions to address difficult-to-treat gram-negative infections, which are becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics.

POSTECH Professor Yong-Young Noh resolves two decades of oxide semiconductor challenges, which Is published in prestigious journal Nature

Researchers led by POSTECH Professor Yong-Young Noh discovered that tellurium oxide can function as a p-type semiconductor in oxygen-deficient environments. They successfully engineered high-performance amorphous p-type oxide Thin-Film Transistors (TFTs) with exceptional hole mobility and on/off current ratio.

High-precision blood glucose level prediction achieved by few-molecule reservoir computing

Researchers from NIMS and Tokyo University of Science developed a compact AI device that utilizes molecular vibrations to predict blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes. The device outperformed existing AI devices with a 50% error reduction, paving the way for low-power AI terminal devices with various sensors.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2024

First-of-its-kind study definitively shows that conservation actions are effective at halting and reversing biodiversity loss

A comprehensive meta-analysis of 186 studies found that conservation actions improved biodiversity in 66% of cases, slowing decline or increasing species populations. While some interventions were ineffective, they still provided valuable knowledge for refining methods and addressing systemic drivers of biodiversity loss.

SourceRe:wild·JournalScience·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 25, 2024

Treatment for deadly superbug C. diff may be weakening

Clinical trials show decreased effectiveness of vancomycin in treating C. diff infection, with reduced cure rates and lower sustained clinical responses associated with antimicrobial resistance. The finding poses a significant concern for the management of C. diff infection, with only two recommended antibiotics available.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateApr 25, 2024

ASC scientists released long-term data of ground solar-induced fluorescence to improve understanding of canopy-level photosynthesis

The study provides a comprehensive dataset for assessing canopy-level photosynthesis and its relationship with far-red SIF. The data can be used to validate satellite SIF products and improve models for predicting crop yield and assessing plant health.

Capturing and visualizing the phase transition mediated thermal stress of thermal barrier coating materials via a cross-scale integrated computational approach

Researchers developed a high-throughput multiscale evaluation method to quantify and visualize thermal stress in thermal barrier coatings. The approach considers phase transition of ceramic layers, providing a theoretical basis for life prediction and reverse design of coating materials.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateApr 25, 2024

Study reports chlamydia and gonorrhea more likely to be treated per CDC guidelines in males, younger patients and individuals identifying as Black or multiracial

A recent study found that nearly one-in-five chlamydia patients and one-in-four gonorrhea patients did not receive CDC-recommended treatment. Treatment rates were higher for individuals seen in public health clinics, particularly males, younger patients, and those identifying as Black or multiracial.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalSexually Transmitted Diseases·DateApr 25, 2024

Simplified diagnosis of rare eye diseases

Researchers from Bonn, Berlin, Münster, and Mannheim provide an overview of an underestimated imaging technique that supports the diagnosis and monitoring of posterior uveitis and panuveitis. Fundus autofluorescence (FAF) is a fast and non-invasive method for imaging the fundus of the eye, providing indications of active inflammation.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalBiomolecules·DateApr 25, 2024

Bloody net

Researchers at the Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences successfully unlocked a puzzle in vascular tissue engineering, providing important experimental evidence towards understanding and controlling sprouting angiogenesis in vitro. They developed new image-analysis protocols to determine key parameters gove...

Publicly funded fertility program linked to a decrease in rate of multifetal pregnancy

A new study found that publicly funded fertility programs in Ontario led to a significant decrease in the rate of multifetal pregnancies, but ovulation induction and intrauterine insemination remained contributors. The study also showed improvements in assisted reproductive technology contributing to the decline.

SourceInstitute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateApr 25, 2024

Does simple guesswork lead to more cooperation than complicated calculus?

A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania explored how Bayesian and abductive reasoning can be used to model social dynamics. They found that in some scenarios, simple guesswork can lead to more cooperation than complicated calculus, while in others it may result in less cooperation due to stricter judgment criteria.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 25, 2024

How immune cells communicate to fight viruses

Researchers at Universitatsklinikum Bonn have developed a novel technology to identify chemokine-producing cells and sensors, revealing that natural killer cells are the primary producers of Ccl3 during CMV infection. This discovery sheds light on the complex choreography of immune cells in defending against viruses.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 25, 2024

It’s not a match! Skill mismatch after job loss can have great impact on career

A study published in Research Policy found that job displacement leads to significant heterogeneity in earning losses, ranging from 4% to 16.5%, and is exacerbated by skill mismatch. Workers who switch jobs with reduced skill requirements experience the largest losses, while those upskilling are able to catch up within seven years.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalResearch Policy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 25, 2024

The maternal microbiota during gestation: elucidating the complexities of the maternal microbiome to promote maternal and neonatal wellbeing

This study analyzed over 10,000 microbiome samples from pregnant women worldwide to understand the complex relationships between the maternal microbiome and pregnancy complications. The research revealed patterns of microbial dysbiosis associated with pregnancy disorders and identified potential biomarkers for monitoring pregnancy health.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateApr 25, 2024

Physical activity in nature helps prevent several diseases, including depression and type 2 diabetes

Research from the University of Exeter found that physical activity in natural environments can prevent six non-communicable diseases, including depression and type 2 diabetes. The study estimated that nature-based physical activity prevented 12,763 cases of disease in England annually, saving £108.7m in healthcare costs.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironment International·DateApr 25, 2024

Built-in bionic computing

Researchers have created a method to control pneumatic artificial muscles with embedded bifurcation structures, which can generate diverse dynamics and patterns. This breakthrough enables robots to exhibit more adaptable and flexible movements, streamlining hardware and software development.

SourceKyoto University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2024

Targeting specific protein regions offers a new treatment approach in medulloblastoma

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered a new compound that selectively targets parts of the cancer-related protein EP300/CBP in Group 3 medulloblastoma, significantly reducing cancer cell growth. The targeted approach using region-specific inhibitors resulted in profound effects on Group 3 medulloblastoma cells.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateApr 25, 2024

Enhancing fermented sausage quality: a comprehensive review of gel formation mechanisms and the role of lactic acid bacteria

The study reveals that lactic acid bacteria enhance gel strength, elasticity and juiciness by lowering pH and increasing ionic strength, promoting actomyosin formation. Advanced imaging techniques such as SEM and CLSM are critical in characterizing these microstructures.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalFood Materials Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2024

Philippines' counter-terrorism strategy still stalled after 7 years since the ‘ISIS siege’ on Marawi

A new study by University of Portsmouth experts highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive reassessment of the Philippines' counter-terrorism strategy. The research found that the focus on combating the Abu Sayyaf Group has overshadowed persistent security threats posed by long-standing insurgent groups.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalJournal of Policing Intelligence and Counter Terrorism·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 25, 2024

Synthetic droplets cause a stir in the primordial soup

Scientists from OIST created synthetic droplets to mimic biological processes, finding that pH gradients facilitate Marangoni effect and enabling droplets to detect and migrate towards each other. This study sheds light on the movement of simplest forms of life in primordial soup billions of years ago.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2024