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Science News for August 20, 2024


How the public perceives a company can determine whether misconduct becomes scandalized

A new study explores how public evaluation affects corporate misconduct scandalization, highlighting the role of reputation and celebrity. Companies with high reputations are more likely to have severe misconduct scrutinized, while those with high celebrity influence may downplay the issue.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalStrategic Management Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 20, 2024

The International System for reporting serous fluid cytopathology—an updated review

The International System for reporting serous fluid cytopathology aims to standardize diagnostic criteria and improve communication between pathologists and clinicians. The system categorizes samples into five categories: Nondiagnostic, Negative for Malignancy, Atypia of Uncertain Significance, Suspicious for Malignancy, and Malignant.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Pathology·DateAug 20, 2024

Mother’s gut microbiome during pregnancy shapes baby’s brain development

A study in mice found that the bacteria Bifidobacterium breve supports healthy brain development in fetuses, improving nutrient transport and cell processes. This discovery suggests using probiotics during pregnancy may support fetal brain health and future treatments for growth restriction could focus on maternal gut health.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMolecular Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2024

Organoids in gastrointestinal diseases: from bench to clinic

Organoids models provide a comprehensive understanding of gastrointestinal disease etiology, highlighting complex interactions between genetic predisposition and gut microbiota. The review demonstrates the application of organoid models from bench to clinic for simulating host-microbial interactions and developing treatment strategies.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 20, 2024

SNU researchers develop the bilateral back extensor exosuit revolutionizing workplace safety

The BBEX exosuit provides multidimensional force assistance, reduces muscle fatigue, and decreases compression forces on spinal joints, suggesting a significant reduction in lower back injuries. The device is designed to mimic human biomechanics, offering comprehensive support during lifting tasks.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2024

Professor Hongbin Han’s team at Peking University makes breakthrough in brain disorder treatment with novel method to modulate molecular transportation in extracellular space

Researchers at Peking University have developed a novel method to treat cerebral ischemic stroke by modulating molecular transportation in the brain extracellular space. The method, called modified epidural artery implantation (m-EAI), bypasses the blood-brain barrier and allows for direct infusion of drugs into the brain, providing a ...

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateAug 20, 2024

Renewable energy policies provide benefits across state lines

Researchers examined how clean energy policies affect neighboring states and found that stronger policies lead to more renewable electricity generation. The study suggests that individual state policies are more effective than previously thought, and that geographical proximity plays a significant role in spillover effects.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 20, 2024

Comprehensive review highlights urgent need for frailty-guided clinical care in older adults

A comprehensive review emphasizes the importance of addressing frailty among older adults, identifying biological underpinnings and promising interventions. The review advocates for integrating frailty assessments into routine clinical practice to personalize care plans and allocate resources effectively.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 20, 2024

Gut bioelectricity provides a path for bad bacteria to cause diseases

A team of researchers at UC Davis Health discovered a novel bioelectrical mechanism that allows Salmonella bacteria to navigate the gut lining and find vulnerable entry points. The study found that Salmonella bacteria detect electric signals in FAE, which helps them move towards openings in the gut where they can enter.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2024

Can naloxone improve survival rates of patients with cardiac arrest?

A recent UC Davis Health study found that administering naloxone to patients with opioid-associated out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) significantly improves return of spontaneous circulation and survival rates. The study analyzed data from San Francisco, Sacramento, and Yolo county EMS agencies between 2015-2023.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 20, 2024

New view of North Star reveals spotted surface

Astronomers using Georgia State University's CHARA Array have identified large spots on the surface of Polaris, also known as the North Star. The observations provided the first glimpse of what the surface of a Cepheid variable looks like, revealing a diameter 46 times larger than the Sun.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 20, 2024

Groundbreaking study shows promise for early detection and intervention in psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia

Researchers have discovered a link between cognitive impairments and brain network organization in individuals at risk of developing psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. This finding suggests an opportunity for early diagnosis and intervention, potentially through non-invasive neuromodulation.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 20, 2024

Korea University offers new breakthrough for Hepatitis C to improve life expectancy

A new study by Korea University College of Medicine shows that direct-acting antivirals significantly reduce liver-related clinical outcomes and lower the risk of disease progression to cancer or cirrhosis, increasing life expectancy for patients with Hepatitis C. The treatment approach has a high effectiveness rate of 90%.

SourceKorea University College of Medicine·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 20, 2024

Environmental laws failing to slow deforestation

Research by University of Queensland reveals that Australian environmental laws are inadequate in stopping high rates of tree clearing for agriculture and development. The study found that 75% of cases in Queensland were exempt from assessment under the state's main vegetation management law, leading to severe deforestation rates.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalConservation Biology·DateAug 20, 2024

Illinois scientists to revamp corn breeding with focus on climate resilience

Researchers are working on a new approach to breeding corn that incorporates genomic selection and gene expression analysis to improve climate resilience. They aim to develop high-accuracy prediction models that can identify suitable genotypes for specific locations and future climates, reducing the need for trial-and-error approaches.

Just 1-2 cigarettes/day before or during pregnancy linked to major newborn health problems

Research published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that even light smoking of 1-2 cigarettes a day before or during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of major newborn health issues. The study analyzed data from over 12 million mother-infant pairs and found that women who smoked had higher risks of neona...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeObservational study·DateAug 20, 2024

Organized youth sports are increasingly for the privileged

A study found that organized youth sports are increasingly dominated by privileged families, with those from educated parents being more likely to participate. Despite an overall increase in sports participation, there has been a concerning rise in kids dropping out of sports, affecting both generations.

SourceOhio State University·JournalLeisure/Loisir·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 20, 2024

Ambitious people aren’t born leaders

A study of 472 executives found that leadership ambition is linked to self-rated effectiveness, but not third-party evaluations. This implies that society may need alternative approaches to choosing and training leaders.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateAug 20, 2024

New computational methodology to predict the complex formation of interesting nanostructures

Researchers developed a new computational methodology to simulate polyoxometalate (POM) formation, enabling the prediction of key factors and suitable conditions. This enhances the open-source tool POMSimulator, facilitating efficient processing of numerous speciation models.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalChemical Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 20, 2024

To subvert immune response, COVID virus stimulates production of proteins without protective function

SARS-CoV-2 uses machinery of defense cells to induce expression of unproductive isoforms of key antiviral genes, disrupting normal protein production and immune response. The study provides fundamental information on potential targets for antiviral medications and immunomodulatory interventions.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateAug 20, 2024

Researchers uncover the secrets of “plant puberty”

A recent study by University of York researchers investigated the factors influencing plant development, finding specific genetic changes control timing. Plants redirect nutrients from leaves to reproductive organs earlier than anticipated, suggesting potential for improving crop uniformity and nutritional value.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateAug 20, 2024

UBC research pinpoints how early-life antibiotics turn immunity into allergy

Researchers at UBC have identified a specific cascade of events that lead to allergies and asthma after early-life antibiotic use. The study found that butyrate-producing bacteria play a key role in halting the allergic response, and that targeting ILC2 cells may provide new treatment options.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2024

The underrated impact of humidity

A study from the University of Tokyo found that incorporating humidity data into heat stress indicators improves predictions of climate-related deaths. The researchers analyzed data from hundreds of cities and found that humid environments, such as coastal areas, are more accurate predictors of heat-related mortality.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 20, 2024

UCF researcher develops lotus-inspired tech to convert CO2 to fuels, chemicals

A University of Central Florida researcher has developed a nature-inspired filtration and conversion system that extracts carbon dioxide gas from the atmosphere to create fuels and chemicals. The device mimics the lotus surface, capturing carbon dioxide with a microsurface comprised of a tin oxide film and fluorine layer.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 20, 2024

Chinese Medical Journal study reframes guidelines for transarterial chemoembolization refractoriness in hepatocellular carcinoma treatment

The Chinese College of Interventionalists has introduced a consensus statement on TACE refractoriness in hepatocellular carcinoma, providing a framework for clinicians to identify and manage the condition. This move aims to optimize treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes, particularly in China where HCC incidence is high due...

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeSurvey·DateAug 20, 2024

Planets contain more water than thought

Researchers found that as planet mass increases, water tends to integrate with the iron core, leading to a reevaluation of astronomical observation data and planetary habitability. This discovery has significant implications for the study of Super-Earths and the search for life beyond Earth.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Astronomy·DateAug 20, 2024

Molecular wires with a twist

Researchers at Osaka University have created molecular wires with periodic twists that increase electrical conductivity. The discovery could lead to the development of cheaper and biocompatible electronic devices.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2024

Using low-cost videoscopes to obtain accurate video “oral selfies” as screening for hpv-associated oropharyngeal cancer: a new screening technology?

Researchers used low-cost videoscopes to create high-quality 'oral selfies' for OPSCC screening, demonstrating their feasibility and effectiveness. The study's findings support the potential of these devices as a viable tool for widespread screening in resource-limited settings.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalCancer Screening and Prevention·DateAug 20, 2024

PolyU scientists harness quantum microprocessor chips for revolutionary molecular spectroscopy simulation

Researchers at PolyU have successfully developed a quantum microprocessor chip that can simulate large-structured and complex molecules with high accuracy. The breakthrough enables scientists to tackle complicated quantum chemistry problems beyond the capabilities of classical computers.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2024

Fossil hotspots in Africa obscure a more complete picture of human evolution

Researchers at George Washington University found that fossil hotspots in eastern Africa, such as the East African Rift System, bias our understanding of human evolution due to their limited geographic representation. The study suggests that scientists must take this bias into account when interpreting early human history and recommend...

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 20, 2024

Blood platelet score detects previously unmeasured risk of heart attack and stroke

Researchers developed a new platelet-centric scoring system to predict platelet hyperreactivity and cardiovascular events. The Platelet Reactivity ExpresSion Score (PRESS) can detect hyperreactive platelets in patients at imminent risk of heart attack and healthy individuals with unknown future risk.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2024

Predation drives opportunistic bacteria to become more virulent

A study published in Genome Biology and Evolution found that predation by protists increases the virulence of opportunistic pathogens like Serratia marcescens. The presence of the predator Tetrahymena thermophila led to stronger biofilm formation and greater antimicrobial resistance, resulting in higher mortality in honey bees.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2024

Seismic game-changer: the multidirectional negative-stiffness isolation system

A novel negative-stiffness isolation device has been developed to provide multidirectional negative stiffness and energy dissipation, effectively mitigating earthquake impacts. The device's advanced design enhances seismic protection by offering a robust solution for safeguarding buildings in earthquake-prone areas.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalInternational Journal of Mechanical System Dynamics·DateAug 20, 2024

Red and processed meat consumption associated with higher type 2 diabetes risk, study of two million people finds

A recent study analyzing data from 1.97 million participants found that consuming 50g of processed meat a day increases type 2 diabetes risk by 15%, while eating 100g of unprocessed red meat daily raises the risk by 10%. Poultry consumption was also associated with a higher risk, but to a lesser extent.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 20, 2024

Re-cryopreservation impairs blastocyst implantation potential via activated endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway and induced apoptosis

A study by Jin et al. found that re-cryopreservation in blastocysts results in impaired development potential, decreased implantation rates, and lower live birth rates. The researchers discovered an association between re-cryopreservation and activated endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway and induced apoptosis.

Precision therapy for metastatic prostate cancer improves survival

A new study published in Nature Medicine shows that precision therapy can improve survival for men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. The treatment, which involves analyzing the genetic profile of the tumor, has been shown to be more effective than chemotherapy in patients whose tumors have specific mutations.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 20, 2024

Kids let down by streaming algorithms: research

Kids are missing out on local content due to algorithmic curation and platform interfaces. Researchers found US-based global streaming video platforms like Netflix and YouTube restrict children's access to available local options.

SourceRMIT University·JournalConvergence The International Journal of Research into New Media Technologies·TypeObservational study·DateAug 20, 2024

Review of research on adverse childhood experiences identifies significant differences in size of effects

Researchers found significant differences in effect sizes depending on studies' approach, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive understanding of ACEs' multifaceted impacts. The study suggests a critical need for varied strategies to understand, prevent, and reduce ACEs' effects on individual development and societal well-being.

SourceCrime and Justice Research Alliance·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateAug 20, 2024

Researchers teaching artificial intelligence about frustration in protein folding

Researchers have developed a new method to predict protein movements by teaching AI about energetic frustration. This improves the accuracy of tools like AlphaFold2 in predicting alternative structures and functional movements. The study has significant implications for drug design, enzyme engineering, and disease mechanisms.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 20, 2024