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Science News for April 9, 2024


Unlocking the body's hidden weapon against cancer: the role of broken chromosomes

Researchers uncover how chromosomal instability, marked by micronuclei formation, regulates tumor progression and immune responses. The study highlights the promise of targeting the cGAS-STING signaling pathway to develop cutting-edge cancer treatments that boost the immune system's natural cancer-fighting capabilities.

SourceZhejiang University·JournalJournal of Zhejiang University (Medical Sciences)·DateApr 9, 2024

Four-part nutrition intervention program reduced adolescent malnutrition in Tanzania

A four-component school-based nutritional intervention package improved diet quality among adolescents and their household members, reducing undernutrition and obesity. The study found promising spillover effects into households and communities, highlighting the transformative potential of schools in combating adolescent malnutrition.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 9, 2024

Clinical trial finds nasal spray safely treats recurrent abnormal heart rhythms

A clinical trial found that a nasal spray called etripamil effectively and safely treated recurrent episodes of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) in patients. The study showed that two-thirds of participants experienced relief within an hour, with an average time needed for symptom relief being 17 minutes.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 9, 2024

Understanding the northward movement of the subtropical westerly jet in changing climates

The subtropical westerly jet has been shifting northward under global warming, with research suggesting that temperature changes are the primary driver. According to a new study, about 72% of the jet's northward movement is due to changes in temperature, while eddy-driven effects account for around 28%.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres·DateApr 9, 2024

Proteogenomic signatures may help identify risk of prostate cancer progression in patients with African and European ancestries

A study found that proteogenomic signatures in prostate cancer tissue from patients with African and European ancestries were associated with a higher risk of metastasis and/or recurrence. The study identified mutation signatures and recurrent copy number alterations that correlated with disease progression.

What’s quieter than a fish? A school of them

Researchers found that synchronization of tail flaps in a school of fish reduces sound, with the single biggest key being alternating flaps rather than unison movement. This phenomenon could have significant implications for prey fish, allowing predators to perceive them as individual fish rather than a group.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateApr 9, 2024

Does the time of day you move your body make a difference to your health?

Researchers found that undertaking majority of daily aerobic physical activity in the evening is associated with lower risk of premature death and cardiovascular disease for people with obesity. The study, published in Diabetes Care, suggests that planning physical activity into certain times of the day may help offset some health risks.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalDiabetes Care·TypeObservational study·DateApr 9, 2024

Experimental collaboration between archaeologists and MeatEater highlights the prevalence of equifinality in archaeological interpretation

A unique collaboration between archaeologists and MeatEater highlights the prevalence of equifinality, where distinct processes can lead to the same outcome. The experiment tested Clovis stone tools' efficiency in processing a bison, offering insights into early human technologies.

SourceKent State University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024

BESSY II: How pulsed charging enhances the service time of batteries

A recent study found that pulsed charging improves lithium-ion battery stability and lifespan. The study, led by Philipp Adelhelm, demonstrated that high-frequency pulsed current reduces ageing effects and structural changes in the electrode materials, leading to a doubled cycle life with 80% capacity retention.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024

This device gathers, stores electricity in remote settings

A novel pyroelectrochemical cell (PEC) developed by University of Utah engineers can generate electricity from ambient temperature changes, demonstrating its potential for 'Internet of Things' applications. The device stores energy in an electric double layer, enabling it to power sensors without recharging.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024

New technique sheds light on memory and learning

A new platform called TurboID has been developed to identify regulatory mechanisms driving dendritic translation, a process crucial for memory formation. The study reveals the role of micropeptides in protein synthesis and their potential link to intellectual disabilities like Fragile X syndrome.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 9, 2024

Optimizing apple production: the interplay of crop load, rootstock, and chemical thinning on 'fuji' apples

Researchers found that adjusting crop loads to specific levels for different rootstock types can optimize tree growth and fruit quality. Chemical thinning agents like carbaryl and 6-BA were effective in managing crop load, with best practices involving specific concentrations and application timings.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalFruit Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024

Electro-optic 3D snapshot of a laser wakefield accelerated kilo-ampere electron bunch

A team of scientists has achieved a breakthrough in measuring the 3D density profile of laser wakefield accelerated electron bunches, revealing a transverse size of less than 30 micrometers and a peak current exceeding 1 kiloampere. This detection opens new avenues for future applications in accelerator science and beyond.

Unraveling the iconography of the Etruscan lamp of Cortona

A new study on the Etruscan bronze lamp of Cortona reveals it is a cult object linked to the mystery cult of Dionysus, dating back to 480 BCE. The lamp's decorations depict the Dionysian thiasus, an ecstatic retinue of revelers, challenging earlier interpretations.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalEtruscan and Italic Studies·TypeContent analysis·DateApr 9, 2024

A smarter city skyline for flood safety

Urban flooding is increasing due to climate change and urbanization, posing a significant threat to pedestrian safety. Researchers found that building configurations can significantly impact flood vulnerability; staggered layouts provide more danger zones, while rounded or circular footprints reduce high-floodwater areas.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 9, 2024

Cleveland Clinic, Tufts University research ties gut microbial TMAO pathway to chronic kidney disease

Researchers discovered that participants with elevated TMAO blood levels were at increased risk for future development of chronic kidney disease, even after adjusting for other known risk factors. The study also found a faster rate of declining kidney function in people with normal or impaired kidney function.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 9, 2024

System uses artificial intelligence to detect wild animals on roads and avoid accidents

A team of researchers developed an AI-powered computer vision model to detect Brazilian wild animals on roads and warn drivers in real-time. The system uses roadside cameras and portable computers to identify species such as anteaters, wolves, and tapirs, with the potential to save lives and reduce roadkill.

Can the bias in algorithms help us see our own?

A new study by Carey Morewedge and colleagues found that people are more likely to recognize bias in algorithmic decisions than their own. This is because algorithms can codify and amplify human bias, but also reveal structural biases in society. The research suggests ways to increase awareness of biases and correct them.

SourceBoston University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateApr 9, 2024

The genomic architecture of inherited DNA variants

Researchers analyzed exome sequencing data from 773 affected individuals and 643 unaffected relatives, discovering a correlation between increased consanguinity and complex genetic disorders. The study created a population-specific database revealing unique DNA information unseen in larger cohorts.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenetics in Medicine Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 9, 2024

Tiny plastic particles are found everywhere

New study reveals high concentrations of small microplastics in surface water samples from the Southern Weddell Sea off Antarctica, surpassing previous studies. The research suggests ocean currents play a crucial role in pollution and highlights the need for further investigation into their impact.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateApr 9, 2024

Prognostic significance of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and anti-programmed death-ligand 1 therapy in sinonasal mucosal melanoma: a 10-year experience at a single institution

A study of 12 patients with sinonasal mucosal melanoma found that brisk tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes associated with improved outcomes, while anti-PD-L1 therapy showed potential as a therapeutic strategy. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Pathology·DateApr 9, 2024

Brigham researchers develop SCENT for genetic mapping of autoimmune diseases

Researchers have developed a statistical method called SCENT to establish links between regulatory elements and genes, pinpointing probable causal gene loci for common and rare diseases. The study applied SCENT to multimodal single-cell datasets from various human tissues, discovering insights into DNA regulation in specific cell types.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024

Patient images are missing in studies on atopic dermatitis

A study from the University of Gothenburg found that patient images are severely lacking in scientific articles on atopic dermatitis. This lack of visual aids hinders patients' ability to make informed decisions about their care, as they struggle to understand complex medical terminology and figures. The absence of images also affects ...

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Dermatological Treatment·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 9, 2024

Investigational personalized vaccine provides clinical benefit for some patients with resected head and neck cancers

A personalized vaccine, TG4050, has been shown to induce tumor-specific immune responses and delay disease relapse in patients with surgically resected HPV-negative head and neck squamous cell cancer. The vaccine uses a nonpathogenic form of poxvirus to deliver unique neoantigens that activate and expand antitumor T cells.

HKUST and Tsinghua researchers develop mechanism of electrical 180° switching of Néel vector

A research team has developed a mechanism for electrical 180° switching of the Néel vector in antiferromagnetic materials, featuring C-paired spin-valley locking. The study demonstrates the material's capability to manipulate the Néel vector, enabling the manufacturing of ultrafast memory devices with high efficiency and reproducibility.

Unlocking the genetic secrets of Pterocarya hupehensis: a phylogeographic study on the impact of environmental changes and geographical barriers

Researchers investigated the phylogeographic history of Pterocarya hupehensis using cpDNA sequence variation analysis, RAD-seq reads, and ecological niche modeling. The study found two main haplotype lineages with genetic introgression in five populations, suggesting unidirectional gene flow.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalForestry Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024

Sandia studies subterranean storage of hydrogen

Researchers found that hydrogen can be stored in depleted oil and gas reservoirs without getting stuck, as long as the rock is properly sealed. The study also showed that residual natural gas can be released from the rock into the hydrogen when injected, making it a potentially viable option for seasonal and long-term storage.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 9, 2024

Can large language models replace human participants in some future market research?

A new study published in Marketing Science found that large language models (LLMs) can generate similar outputs to human surveys, with agreement rates between 75%-85%. This means that LLMs can be used to conduct market research for certain product categories, increasing efficiency and potentially reducing costs.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·TypeObservational study·DateApr 9, 2024

Bacteria in cancer unmasked

A study published in Cell reveals a detailed catalogue of bacteria living in cancer metastases, including links to therapy efficacy and tumor cell activity. The research provides new insights into how bacteria interact with cancer cells and their surroundings.

Humans can increase biodiversity

Researchers argue that human interaction with nature is more complex than previously thought, suggesting a positive effect on biodiversity. Studies of past human interactions with ecosystems reveal both negative and positive impacts, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of human influence.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateApr 9, 2024

Growth mindset messages can close grade gap for first-generation students

A Washington State University study found that growth mindset emails improved the grades of first-generation students in an introductory science course by an average of a third of a letter grade. The intervention, which included personalized messages and strategies for improvement, helped bridge the gap with continuing-generation stude...

SourceWashington State University·JournalCBE—Life Sciences Education·DateApr 9, 2024

Do some mysterious bones belong to gigantic ichthyosaurs?

Fossilized bone fragments from Western and Central Europe have been identified as belonging to gigantic ichthyosaurs due to their unique microstructure. The discovery sheds new light on an ongoing debate among paleontologists, suggesting that these massive sea creatures could have reached lengths similar to the modern blue whale.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPeerJ·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024

People with hypothyroidism and type D personality may be more likely to experience poor treatment outcomes

Researchers discovered that people with hypothyroidism are more likely to have a type D personality, which is characterized by pessimism and negative emotions. Those with both conditions experienced high levels of anxiety, depression, and dissatisfaction with treatment, highlighting the need for further research to improve outcomes.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 9, 2024

Breeding more resilient soybeans may come down to test site selection

A new study from the University of Illinois recommends redistributing soybean testing sites to better represent the growing environment and improve crop resilience. The researchers analyzed long-term climate data and records of soybean trials to develop two new sets of maps that would help breeders strategize test site placement.

A microbial plastic factory for high-quality green plastic

Kobe University researchers develop a bacterial plastic factory that produces highly transparent, biodegradable plastics with improved properties. By blending polylactic acid with ultra-high molecular weight LAHB, they create a material that exhibits all the desired properties.

SourceKobe University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024

No link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and children’s risk of autism, ADHD, and intellectual disability says large sibling study from Drexel University and Sweden’s Karolinska Institutet

Researchers analyzed data from 2.4 million children born in Sweden to find no evidence linking acetaminophen use during pregnancy to increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. Sibling comparisons controlled for shared genetic and environmental factors, providing reassurance for expectant parents considering medication use.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJAMA·TypeObservational study·DateApr 9, 2024

A natural touch for coastal defense

A new study found that hybrid coastal defenses, which combine natural and hard measures, are more cost-effective and provide higher hazard reduction in low-risk areas. In contrast, soft measures such as restoring or rehabilitating natural ecosystems are also beneficial in terms of environmental benefits.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 9, 2024

Cognitive decline may be detected using network analysis, according to Concordia researchers

Concordia researchers use network analysis to study cognitive decline, identifying key variables that predict subtle changes in brain function. Executive function and processing speed are found to be strongly influential, with age affecting cognition differently for those with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease.

SourceConcordia University·JournalCortex·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 9, 2024

High-brightness green InP-based QLEDs enabled by in-situ passivating core surface with zinc myristate

Researchers have developed a method to improve the optoelectronic properties of InP-based QDs, resulting in high-brightness green InP-based QLEDs. The new synthesis strategy uses zinc myristate to protect the core surface from oxidation, leading to improved quantum yields and luminescence performance.

SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024

How does China’s Agricultural Green Development promote the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals?

The study found that China's AGD is closely related to 10 of the 17 SDGs, with improvements in agricultural productivity, resource efficiency, and socio-economic benefits. However, challenges remain, including excessive resource inputs and environmental degradation.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024

Research examines tweets during Hurricane María to analyze social media use during disasters

A study analyzed over 2,000 tweets before and after Hurricane María made landfall, revealing insights into social media use during disasters. The research identified key categories of messages, including information about the disaster, emotional appeals for help, and solidarity efforts among marginalized communities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Environmental Studies and Sciences·TypeContent analysis·DateApr 9, 2024

Impact of climate change on marine life much bigger than previously known

A new analysis method reveals that climate change affects not only survival, metabolism, and skeleton health but also physiology, reproduction, behavior, and physical development in fish and invertebrates. The study suggests up to 100% of biological processes may be affected, with mitigation efforts potentially reducing impacts.

SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 9, 2024

After being insulted, writing down your feelings on paper then getting rid of it reduces anger

Researchers at Nagoya University discovered that writing down one's reaction to a negative incident on paper and then disposing of it significantly reduces feelings of anger. The study found that participants who threw away the paper experienced a significant decrease in anger levels, while those who kept it saw only a small reduction.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 9, 2024

Researchers at MUSC call for focus on higher stroke risk in women

A new review article highlights the complexities of stroke risk in women, which extends beyond age and includes various modifiable and non-modifiable factors. Women are more sensitive to high blood pressure, and other disorders such as late puberty, early menopause, pregnancy, and hormonal therapy also significantly affect their risk.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 9, 2024

Childhood sedentariness causes excessive insulin, raising the risk of type 2 diabetes

A new study found that increased childhood sedentary time is associated with higher blood insulin concentration and a greater risk of excess insulin and insulin resistance. Light physical activity was shown to reduce the risk of excess insulin by 20%, while moderate-to-vigorous physical activity had a smaller effect.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateApr 9, 2024

AACR: Trio of studies highlights promising early results with new cancer therapies and targets

Researchers from MD Anderson Cancer Center present early-phase clinical data demonstrating the efficacy of a new combination therapy, an antibody-drug conjugate, and molecularly selected patients in treating lymphoma and gastric cancers. The studies show promising initial results with improved response rates and overall survival.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 9, 2024