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Science News for August 21, 2024


Researchers observe floquet states in colloidal nanoplatelets driven by visible pulses

Researchers directly observed Floquet states in colloidal nanoplatelets driven by visible pulses using all-optical spectroscopy. The study provided an all-optical direct observation of Floquet states in semiconductor materials and uncovered rich spectral and dynamic physics of these states.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Photonics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 21, 2024

Study reveals best exercise for diabetes patients

A new study found that interval exercise is better suited for men with low blood sugar levels, while continuous exercise is more effective for women. The research suggests that gender-specific recommendations should be considered when prescribing aerobic exercise to patients with type-1 diabetes.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalThe American Journal of Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 21, 2024

Kessler Foundation scientists investigate effects of robotic postural stand training combined with spinal cord epidural stimulation

The study found that robotic postural stand training with epidural stimulation improved trunk control during standing tasks, but had no significant impact on sitting outcomes for high-level motor-complete individuals with SCI. This suggests that rehabilitation strategies should be tailored to target specific postures.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalJournal of Clinical Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 21, 2024

Living plastics: a new solution for plastic degradation through synthetic biology

Researchers at Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology developed a novel approach to create degradable living plastics by programming spores to secrete enzymes that break down plastic. The 'living plastics' degrade efficiently within 6-7 days, outperforming regular plastics even with surface damage.

SourceShenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 21, 2024

New Data: MedPearl clinical decision platform improves specialty referrals, boosts productivity, and reduces clinician time spent in the EMR

The MedPearl platform improved primary care clinician productivity, decreasing time waste on administrative tasks and enhancing the quality of referrals to specialists. Clinician users reported a 72% improvement in clinical management and workups, with a high user retention rate after system-wide integration.

SourceProvidence Health & Services·JournalNEJM Catalyst·TypeCase study·DateAug 21, 2024

Can flexibility help people live longer?

A recent study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports found that reduced body flexibility is associated with poor survival in middle-aged men and women. After analyzing data from 3,139 participants, researchers discovered an inverse relationship between Flexindex scores and mortality risk.

SourceWiley·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateAug 21, 2024

Gene scissors switch off with built-in timer

Researchers discovered a timer integrated into CRISPR gene scissors that enables them to switch themselves off after a viral attack. The CalpL protein triggers a signaling cascade to help the cell survive the viral attack, but breaking down cyclic oligoadenylates regulates the immune response and returns the cell to normal conditions.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateAug 21, 2024

Advanced OAM mode switching in multimode fiber utilizing optical neural network chip

A team of scientists developed a flexible mode-switching system utilizing an optical neural network chip to switch between different Orbital Angular Momentum (OAM) modes in a multimode fibre. The system achieved low-crosstalk mode switching, enabling efficient and flexible optical networks capable of meeting growing demands.

How personality traits might interact to affect self-control

A study found that neuroticism can negatively affect general and inhibitory self-control, while a positive correlation was seen for extraversion and conscientiousness. Understanding the nuanced interplay between personality traits and self-control is essential for developing effective interventions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateAug 21, 2024

USAMMDA commercial partner receives FDA emergency use authorization for plasma powder

Octapharma USA, a US Army Medical Materiel Development Activity commercial partner, has received FDA emergency use authorization for octaplasLG Powder, a potentially lifesaving treatment option for blood replacement therapies in certain operational circumstances. The EUA authorizes military medical commands to procuring and administeri...

New molecules from IOCB Prague decrease appetite and protect the brain against Alzheimer’s-type diseases

Scientists at IOCB Prague have developed a new compound that suppresses appetite and protects the brain against Alzheimer's disease. The modified molecule, derived from the neuropeptide CART, is effective in reducing pathology associated with Alzheimer's.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalEuropean Journal of Pharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2024

RECOVER study determines most common long COVID symptoms in children and teens

A new measure identifies school-age children and adolescents with the highest chances of having Long COVID based on long-term symptoms. Researchers found that prolonged symptoms affect almost every organ system, with distinct patterns in children and teens, highlighting the need for further study and monitoring.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2024

Obese children are more likely to develop skin conditions related to the immune system

A large-scale study investigated the relationship between childhood obesity and immune-mediated skin diseases (IMSDs), such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. The study found that obese children were more likely to develop these conditions, with changes in body weight affecting their risk of developing these diseases.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 21, 2024

Dormant capacity reserve in lithium-ion batteries detected

Researchers at TU Graz have observed where lithium ions are stored and released from battery material during charging and discharging cycles. They found that even fully charged batteries retain lithium ions in the crystal lattice of the cathode, leading to a capacity loss. This knowledge can help increase battery capacity further.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 21, 2024

The power of face time: Insights from zebra finch courtship

Researchers at McGill University found that zebra finches deprived of early social experiences can still form strong bonds with a partner later in life. Female finches developed a preference for their partner's song only when they lived together, suggesting quality time is essential for forming strong bonds.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2024

Novel PET/CT technique accurately detects neuroblastoma in children with short scan time and no anesthesia

A novel PET/CT technique has been developed to detect neuroblastoma in children with high sensitivity and short scan time, eliminating the need for sedation or anesthesia. The new technique uses a novel tracer and next-generation scanner, resulting in improved diagnostic accuracy and reduced radiation exposure.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateAug 21, 2024

Inflammation during childhood linked to onset of mental health issues in early adulthood – study reveals

A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that children with persistently raised inflammation are at a higher risk of experiencing serious mental health disorders, including psychosis and depression, in early adulthood. The research also discovered that those who experienced inflammation at a young age were more likely to devel...

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateAug 21, 2024

New study from Pusan National University uncovers the hidden obviousness of self-deprecating remarks in Korean entertainment

A recent study by Professors Eunseok Ro and Josephine Mijin Lee from Pusan National University reveals that self-deprecation serves different interactional goals, such as defense, reprimand, and accusation, depending on the context. The researchers analyzed three excerpts from Korean TV shows, Infinite Challenge and I Am Solo, demonstr...

SourcePusan National University·JournalJournal of Pragmatics·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 21, 2024

How do the characteristics of historic urban landscapes influence public sentiments, and what implications do these findings have for urban planning and development strategies?

Researchers analyzed public perceptions of historic urban landscapes in Shaoxing, China, revealing that different characteristics affect sentiments differently on weekdays and weekends. Urban designers should develop targeted plans to balance preservation with development, ensuring a sustainable environment and people's well-being.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalLandscape Architecture Frontiers·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2024

Study finds highest prediction of sea-level rise unlikely

A new study led by Dartmouth researchers questions the rapid polar ice collapse model used in the IPCC's sixth assessment report. The team found that the expected rate of retreat is significantly lower than predicted, making the worst-case scenario less likely, but still dire due to ongoing ice loss from Greenland and Antarctica.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 21, 2024

Greenhouse gas HFC-23: Abatement of emissions is achievable

A team of researchers from Empa and the University of Bristol used a novel tracer gas method to accurately measure HFC-23 emissions from a Teflon factory. The study found that abatement measures were effective in reducing emissions, but discrepancies between reported and actual emissions suggest need for independent verification.

The Lancet Public Health: Climate change and ageing populations to drive greater disparities in deaths from hot and cold temperatures across Europe, modelling study suggests

A new study suggests that climate change and ageing populations will widen regional disparities in death risk from hot and cold temperatures in Europe. By 2100, heat-related deaths are projected to increase significantly, mostly in southern regions, while cold-related deaths are expected to decline slightly.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 21, 2024

Researchers aim to pull back the curtain on long COVID in kids

A comprehensive national study on long COVID in children found that the virus causes tangible and pervasive symptoms, with some children experiencing severe disabilities. The study analyzed data from over 5,000 children and found significant differences in symptoms between infected and uninfected kids.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·TypeSurvey·DateAug 21, 2024

Legal challenges in human brain organoid research and its applications

A recent study categorizes human brain organoid research's legal challenges into five key themes: consciousness, consent, ownership, transplantation, and legal status. This categorization aims to establish regulatory priorities for the future, guiding responsible and ethical advancement in the field.

The real price of the “zero-price effect”

A study by Tel Aviv University researchers found that homes sold through free classified services received fewer clicks, sold more slowly, and at a lower price than identical homes sold through paid services. This resulted in an average net loss of about 3.5% to 3.8% of the transaction price.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalReal Estate Economics·DateAug 21, 2024

Study reveals doubled risk of preterm birth for IVF pregnancies complicated by placental abruption

A Rutgers University study reveals that women who conceive through IVF and experience placental abruption are twice as likely to deliver early compared to those with only one factor. The research analyzed nearly 79 million hospital deliveries in the US over two decades, highlighting the need for careful monitoring of ART pregnancies.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 21, 2024

Gluten is a proinflammatory inducer of autoimmunity

Recent research highlights gluten's role in inducing harmful immune responses in chronic inflammatory diseases, including celiac disease and other autoimmune conditions. Gluten withdrawal can alleviate symptoms, while a gluten-free Mediterranean diet may be a healthier alternative for overall nutritional adequacy.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Translational Gastroenterology·DateAug 21, 2024

Quenching the intense heat of a fusion plasma may require a well-placed liquid metal evaporator

Scientists at PPPL envision a hot region with flowing liquid metal that protects the inside of the tokamak from intense heat. The new simulations reflect additional information, including collisions between neutral particles, and determine the best location for the lithium vapor cave is near the bottom of the tokamak by the center stack.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalNuclear Fusion·DateAug 21, 2024

Study assesses seizure risk from stimulating thalamus

A new study by researchers at MIT and MGH found that even low stimulation currents could sometimes still cause electrographic seizures in awake mice, with a rate of 2.2 percent of tests experiencing seizures. The study cautions against the use of brain stimulation-based therapies without proper monitoring.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalBrain Stimulation·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2024

HKUST engineering researchers develop eco-friendly cooling device with record-breaking efficiency

Researchers at HKUST have developed an eco-friendly refrigeration device with a boost in efficiency of over 48%, using elastocaloric cooling technology that is greenhouse gas-free and 100% recyclable. The new device achieved a temperature lift of 75K, surpassing the previous world record.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2024

Genomic treasure trove: Vernicia montana's DNA unearths new breeding horizons

A pioneering study decodes the chromosome-level genome of Vernicia montana, providing insights into its evolution and setting the stage for advanced molecular breeding and sex identification methods. The research identifies a reliable molecular marker for sex determination, streamlining the selection process for high-yielding female tr...

What really drives consumers to sign up for community-supported agriculture

Researchers identify two key factors driving consumer participation in community-supported agriculture: the socio-cultural environment and weighing of expected gains against losses. These factors shape individuals' knowledge, attitudes, and decisions, highlighting the importance of considering lifestyles and values when promoting CSA.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAgricultural and Food Economics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2024

Killing giant ragweed just got harder for some Wisconsin farmers

Research from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign reveals that some giant ragweed populations in Wisconsin have evolved resistance to critical post-emergence herbicides. This development limits chemical options for non-GMO soybean growers, potentially forcing them to switch to GMO soybean...

More academic freedom leads to more innovation

A recent study by an international team has established a link between academic freedom and innovative output for the first time. The researchers found that countries with higher levels of academic freedom tend to have more patent applications and citations, indicating a positive correlation between academic freedom and innovation. Con...

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 21, 2024

An active multi-beam antenna design method and its application for the future 6G satellite network

Researchers develop a new active multi-beam antenna design method that optimizes gain, sidelobe level, and beam direction using AI-powered surrogate models. The method solves complex nonlinear optimization problems, allowing for the creation of high-performance antennas with reduced complexity.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace: Science & Technology·DateAug 21, 2024

Developing innovative new display technologies! Create ultrahigh-definition screens efficiently!

A team of researchers has developed a double-layer dry transfer printing technology to create ultrahigh-definition light-emitting devices with high efficiency. This innovation enables better augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences, reducing dizziness caused by small screens conveying large amounts of information.

Near-term NASA Mars and lunar in situ propellant production: complexity versus simplicity

Lunar ISPP focuses on carbothermal process to produce oxygen from regolith, while NASA near-term plans rely on H2 and O2 propellants. For Mars, electrolysis of CO2 is considered simplest method, with water-based approach preferred for practicality. Power requirements for both lunar and Martian ISPPs pose significant challenges, with so...

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace: Science & Technology·DateAug 21, 2024

Freeze-frame: U of A researchers develop world's fastest microscope that can see electrons in motion

Researchers at the University of Arizona developed a transmission electron microscope with attosecond temporal resolution, allowing scientists to observe electron motion in real-time. This breakthrough enables studies of ultrafast processes at the atomic level, paving the way for advancements in physics and chemistry.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 21, 2024

UCLA-led study unveils new insights and potential treatments for pulmonary hypertension

A UCLA-led study has identified a protective role for the asporin protein in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), suggesting potential new ways to treat this incurable disease. Asporin was found to inhibit pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell proliferation and a key signaling pathway that occurs with PAH.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCirculation·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 21, 2024

Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) improves gait ability in SBMA patients and maintains quality of life over an extended period

The Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) system improved gait distance by 30% and maintained quality of life in patients with Spinal and Bulbar Muscular Atrophy (SBMA). The study suggests that continuous HAL therapy can preserve physical function and quality of life over an extended period.

SourceToho University·JournalJournal of Clinical Neuroscience·TypeObservational study·DateAug 21, 2024

Brain enlargement is linked to severe symptoms of autism spectrum disorder, study shows

A study of over 900 children with autism spectrum disorder found that brain overgrowth is associated with increased social and communication symptoms. The research used MRI brain images and mini-brain experiments to show that enlarged brains are linked to altered Ndel1 enzyme activity, potentially affecting brain development.

Unlocking the last lanthanide

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory used X-ray absorption spectroscopy to study promethium, a rare and radioactive element. The team successfully observed promethium form chemical bonds with neighboring oxygen atoms in an aqueous solution, providing new insights into its complex chemistry.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2024

Contactless integrated photonic probes: A non-invasive on-chip optical monitor

CLIPP monitors optical power by detecting conductance variation caused by surface state absorption, enabling non-invasive on-chip monitoring of large-scale photonic integrated circuits. The technology has been applied to identification and feedback control of optical signals, offering improved stability and performance.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Optoelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2024

Beetle that pushes dung with the help of 100 billion stars unlocks the key to better navigation systems in drones and satellites

Researchers at the University of South Australia have developed an AI sensor that can accurately measure the orientation of the Milky Way in low light, using a technique inspired by the dung beetle. This system could improve navigation for drones and satellites in difficult lighting conditions.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalBiomimetics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 21, 2024

Using AI to link heat waves to global warming

A new AI approach accurately links heat waves to global warming, estimating that record-setting heat waves could occur multiple times per decade under higher warming levels. The method uses actual historical weather data and machine learning to predict the magnitude of extreme events.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 21, 2024

EMBARGOED NEJM Catalyst TOC, August 21, 2024

The African American Transplant Access Program aims to mitigate disparities in solid organ transplantation, while a physician-created platform speeds clinical decision-making. NEJM Catalyst also explores quality and safety improvement through longitudinal care management for diabetes and hypertension.

SourceNEJM Group·JournalNEJM Catalyst·DateAug 21, 2024

Positive effects of rhythm and music in brain disorder

A scoping review from the University of Gothenburg found that music-based movement therapy, known as the Ronnie Gardiner Method, can improve rehabilitation outcomes in individuals with brain disorders. The method has been shown to be challenging, motivating, and enjoyable for participants, leading to improved recovery and quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalDisability and Rehabilitation·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 21, 2024

Even as COVID raged, spikes in homicide were a significant drag on life expectancy for Black men

A recent study found that the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the gap in life expectancies between Black and white men, with homicide rates contributing significantly to this disparity. The analysis revealed that homicides carried a disproportionate impact on life expectancy among young men, particularly Black men.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 21, 2024

Separating the physical and psychosocial causes of pain

Researchers developed an approach to clearly separate physical and psychosocial components of pain, allowing for more targeted treatment. The new method combines measuring body signals, self-disclosure, and computerized evaluation to create two indices: one for physical component and one for psychosocial component.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalMed·DateAug 21, 2024

When climate reporting fails to create impact

A new study from the University of Auckland finds that mandating social and environmental disclosures doesn't necessarily improve businesses' performance. The researchers analyzed a cross-country sample of companies under the EU Directive 2014/95/EU and found no meaningful improvement in environmental outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalThe British Accounting Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 21, 2024

Birds have accents, too: Researchers find cultural change in the dialects of parrots over 22-year period

Over a 22-year period, researchers found significant cultural changes in the dialects of yellow-naped amazon parrots, including shifting dialect boundaries and new call variants. The findings suggest that the species' vocal learning ability may serve an adaptive role in responding to changing social dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateAug 21, 2024

Does cognitive behavioral therapy benefit cancer survivors?

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) moderately improves mental health and quality of life in people with past or current cancer. CBT was more effective for younger individuals and in-person delivery compared to technology-based platforms.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer Medicine·DateAug 21, 2024

Want to improve your company’s performance? Here’s why hiring directors with international experience can help

Research from Binghamton University found that companies perform better when board directors have international experience, as long as they function cohesively as a team. This leads to better decision-making and profitability. However, other factors like sharing knowledge or social capital do not significantly impact firm performance.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Business and Management·DateAug 21, 2024