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Science News for August 7, 2024


Corn’s ‘missing link’

Researchers discover a gene drive system, Teosinte Pollen Drive (TPD), that enables the quick transfer of traits from teosinte to maize. This finding sheds light on corn's rapid adaptation to the highlands and has significant implications for agriculture.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature·DateAug 7, 2024

National Academies progress report: Health disparities

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine has identified the challenges and opportunities involved in overcoming barriers to increased research participation by diverse populations. The report emphasizes the importance of enhancing diversity in clinical trials to improve health equity and elevate the quality of care ...

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 7, 2024

Improving resolution and reducing noise in fluorescence microscopy with ensured fidelity

Researchers have developed a novel deconvolution method called multi-resolution analysis (MRA) that improves image quality without introducing artifacts, allowing for high-fidelity imaging of cells and their processes. The approach capitalizes on the physical properties of excited fluorophores to distinguish useful signals from noise.

Forever chemical pollution can now be tracked

Scientists at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a way to fingerprint organofluorine compounds, also known as 'forever chemicals', allowing them to be traced back to their source. The new technique uses nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and computational tools to identify unique carbon isotope patterns in each molec...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 7, 2024

Work-from-home success might depend on home office setup

A Dutch survey study found that higher satisfaction with home office setup, including air ventilation, is associated with higher productivity and lower burnout. The study suggests that investing in home-office hardware and environmental factors can support work-from-home policies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateAug 7, 2024

Most existing heat wave indices fail to capture heat wave severity

Researchers found that five out of six existing heat-wave indices were unable to capture the severity and spatial distribution of recent lethal heat waves in India, Spain, and the USA. The lethal heat-stress index was better able to identify dangerous heat-stress conditions, particularly in low-humidity regions.

SourceCell Press·JournalNexus·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 7, 2024

HKU researchers shed light on overcoming cancer drug resistance unlocking potential to expand use of PARP inhibitors across cancer types

A research team from the University of Hong Kong has discovered that the protein FANCM promotes resistance to cancer drugs called PARP inhibitors. This discovery could lead to new treatment strategies and broaden the application of PARP inhibitors across various cancer types.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalCell Reports·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 7, 2024

Steady flight of kestrels could help aerial safety soar

Researchers studied kestrels' hovering flight behavior, revealing insights that could improve drone stability in turbulent conditions. The study found that birds use changes in wing surface area to achieve stable flight, a method that could be applied to morphing wings in drones.

SourceRMIT University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 7, 2024

Multi-omics strategy reveals that Cordyceps Sinensis ameliorates sepsis-associated acute kidney injury via reprogramming of mitochondrial energy metabolism and macrophage polarization

Researchers investigated the potential pharmacological action of Cordyceps Sinensis against sepsis-associated acute kidney injury. CS treatment improved renal function, suppressed inflammatory cytokine expression, and promoted mitochondrial complex activity.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Materia Medica·DateAug 7, 2024

Study on planet-warming contrails “a spanner in the works” for aviation industry

A new study reveals that modern commercial aircraft create longer-lived planet-warming contrails than older aircraft, potentially offsetting their lower carbon emissions. The research highlights the challenges of reducing aviation's climate impact, with private jets also found to produce more contrails than previously thought.

SourceImperial College London·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 7, 2024

How fungi elude antifungal treatments

Researchers at Michigan State University characterized how fungi restructure their cell walls to thwart current antifungal medications. The study found that fungi enhance their survival odds by making specific changes to the structure and organization of the components in their cell walls, rendering existing drugs ineffective.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 7, 2024

How media impacts digital technology adoption in U.S. and Brazilian agriculture

A study found that farmers in both countries rely on interpersonal meetings, social media, and mass media for technology adoption, with social media playing a more significant role in Brazil. The researchers suggest that understanding the complex process of technology adoption can help tech companies reach potential customers.

Urban concrete mines

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a method to combine old concrete with carbon dioxide to create a new, durable material called calcium carbonate concrete. The process involves grinding the old concrete into powder, reacting it with CO2 from the air, and then heating it to form the new block.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Advanced Concrete Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024

Asthma emergencies spike when allergenic pollen blooms

A new Cornell University study reveals that asthma-related emergency room visits spike significantly during periods of high allergenic pollen bloom in metropolitan areas. The research highlights the importance of science-based pollen forecasts to alert vulnerable individuals and prevent unnecessary hospitalizations.

SourceCornell University·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateAug 7, 2024

Photonics-assisted THz wireless communication enabled by wide-bandwidth packaged back-illuminated modified uni-traveling-carrier photodiode

A new photonic transmitter uses a wide-bandwidth packaged back-illuminated modified uni-traveling-carrier photodiode to achieve high-performance THz wireless communication. The device exhibits an over 80 GHz bandwidth and high saturated output power, promising applications in 6G mobile communication technology.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Science·DateAug 7, 2024

Researchers create new device for on-the-spot water testing

A new technology allows for rapid and accurate detection of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli in water sources, enabling Environmental Health Officers and groundwater schemes to test more frequently. The portable device provides on-the-spot results in under an hour, helping to prevent outbreaks of infection.

SourceUniversity of Galway·JournalMicrobiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 7, 2024

Birmingham host to investigational treatment trial which could improve outcomes of pregnancies affected by severe haemolytic disease

A clinical study in Birmingham has found that nipocalimab can improve the survival rate of unborn babies with rare fetal anaemia. The majority of pregnant patients who received nipocalimab gave birth at or after 32 weeks without needing an intrauterine transfusion, resulting in a perinatal survival rate of 92%.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 7, 2024

Memory loss in aging and dementia: Dendritic spine head diameter predicts memory in old age

A study published in Science Advances found that the quality of synapses, specifically dendritic spine head diameter, predicts episodic memory performance in older adults. Researchers suggest targeting pathways that maintain spine head diameter or synaptic strength may yield greater therapeutic benefits for Alzheimer's disease prevention.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024

Dealing with runaway metastatic disease

Researchers discuss how PROM2 is a predictive biomarker of distant metastases and shorter survival among patients with stage III melanomas. They also demonstrate that runaway metastasis is closely linked to PROM2 overexpression, through increased epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition marker expression and ferroptosis resistance.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 7, 2024

Sichuan Province earthquake offers lessons for landslide prediction from GNSS observations

Researchers tested GNSS data for rapid landslide prediction and found near real-time prediction possible within 40 minutes, according to Chen and colleagues. The study highlighted the importance of continuous monitoring and improved prediction models for regions susceptible to landslides.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 7, 2024

Higher glucose levels worsen prognosis in ischemic stroke patients

A study published in Cardiovascular Diabetology found that higher blood glucose levels at admission significantly increase the risk of a poor functional prognosis or death within three months of an ischemic stroke. The study revealed that even a 10% increase in glucose levels raises the risk by 7%, and mortality risk by 88%.

SourceIMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute)·JournalCardiovascular Diabetology·DateAug 7, 2024

When is too much knowledge a bad thing?

A new study suggests that increased knowledge can backfire when individuals prioritize their own interests over the greater good. The 'knowledge curse' concept, coined by Cornell University economists, highlights the potential for enhanced understanding to hinder cooperation and lead to worse outcomes.

SourceCornell University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 7, 2024

Sugary drink intake by children and adolescents increased by almost a quarter between 1990 and 2018

The study found that sugary drink intake among children and adolescents increased by an average of 23% from 1990 to 2018, with the largest increases seen in sub-Saharan Africa. The global average intake was 3.6 standard servings per week, with significant variations by region, age, sex, parental education, and rural vs urban residence.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateAug 7, 2024

Using photos or videos, these AI systems can conjure simulations that train robots to function in physical spaces

Researchers have developed AI systems that use photos or videos to create simulations for training robots in real settings. The RialTo system generates highly accurate simulations of specific environments, while the URDFormer system creates generic simulations quickly and cheaply. These advancements aim to lower costs and increase acce...

A step toward more effective vaccines

Researchers at Stanford University developed a nanoparticle platform to make vaccines more effective against various pathogens. The platform allows for the elicitation of different immune responses, enabling the identification of the most effective type of protection.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 7, 2024

Metalenses phase characterization by multi-distance phase retrieval

Researchers developed a new phase characterization method for metalenses based on multi-distance phase retrieval through optical field scanning. This innovative approach overcomes traditional interferometric techniques' limitations, enabling the measurement of phase distributions and wavefront errors with higher accuracy.

Molecule restores cognition, memory in Alzheimer’s disease model mice

A UCLA researcher identified a compound that effectively jumpstarts the brain's memory circuitry, restoring cognitive functions in mice with Alzheimer's disease symptoms. The molecule, DDL-920, works by targeting specific neurons to enhance gamma oscillations, which are critical for memory and cognition.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024

Scientists lay out revolutionary method to warm Mars

Researchers from University of Chicago and Northwestern University suggest new approach to terraforming Mars using engineered dust particles. The proposed method is over 5,000 times more efficient than previous schemes, using resources readily available on Mars, making it a significant leap forward in modifying the Martian environment.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 7, 2024

Do dieticians have weight biases towards themselves and others?

A survey of UK registered dietitians revealed explicit and implicit weight bias attitudes, with nearly a quarter feeling their weight affects their professional performance. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing weight stigma in the dietetic profession to promote inclusivity and effective care.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics·DateAug 7, 2024

Study quantifies air pollution for NYC subway commuters

A new study quantifies air pollution for NYC subway commuters, revealing disparities in exposure across racial and income groups. The research found that people from lower-income working communities have higher exposures and Black and Hispanic workers experience on average 35% and 23% higher PM2.5 exposure, respectively.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateAug 7, 2024

CalTech team develops first noninvasive method to continually measure true blood pressure

A CalTech research team has developed a noninvasive device that uses sound waves and ultrasound to measure true blood pressure continuously, providing full waveform data without the need for invasive procedures. The device holds promise for improved vital-sign monitoring at home, in hospitals, and in remote locations.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024

Cutting-edge 3D-printed microneedle technology revolutionizes remote healthcare

This innovative system combines remote health monitoring and drug delivery using 3D-printed hollow microneedles, advancing personalized medicine. The integrated theranostic microneedle array measures key health indicators like pH, glucose, and lactate levels, while enabling rapid, pumpless, and point-of-care drug administration.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024

New perspectives for using corals in climate research

A research team from the University of Göttingen has developed a new method to analyze the oxygen isotope composition of coral skeletons, allowing for more accurate temperature reconstructions and insights into biomineralization processes. This breakthrough enables scientists to correct for 'vital effects' that can distort climate data.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalGeochemical Perspectives Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024

Blood test can help predict chronic lung disease in preterm babies

A new study from Murdoch Children's Research Institute has identified changes in certain blood proteins that can predict bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in preterm babies. By combining these protein changes with gestational age, birth weight, and sex, clinicians can make more accurate predictions of BPD risk within 72 hours of life.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 7, 2024

Pesticide exposure linked to stillbirth risk in new study

A new study found that living near areas where pesticides were used during the first trimester of pregnancy or pre-conception increases the risk of stillbirths. Researchers linked pesticide use records to state birth certificate data and found specific chemicals, such as organophosphates and pyrethroids, to be associated with increased...

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 7, 2024

Finding pearls in the mud: eco-friendly tungsten recovery from semiconductor waste

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have unveiled an eco-friendly method to extract rare metals from semiconductor waste, recovering precious tungsten and assessing its economic viability. The bioleaching process, using a fungus to dissolve metals, is found to be 7% cheaper than traditional methods.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateAug 7, 2024

Social rank may determine if animals live fast, die young

A Dartmouth study suggests that social rank determines whether animals prioritize short-term energy consumption over long-term health, with dominant monkeys consuming food quickly to maintain dominance, while lower-ranked monkeys invest time in washing their food to prevent tooth damage. The findings shed light on the disposable soma h...

SourceDartmouth College·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024

More evidence on the dangerous attitudes of men who ogle

A new Edith Cowan University study found that men who frequently stare at women's bodies are more likely to harbor harmful attitudes and exhibit behaviors that may lead to sexual assault. The study validates the 'pervasive body gaze scale' as a reliable marker for sexual objectification and assault propensity.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·TypeObservational study·DateAug 7, 2024

Type 2 diabetes can be prevented by diet and exercise even in individuals with a high genetic risk

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland shows that a healthy diet and regular exercise can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes even in individuals with a high genetic risk. Lifestyle changes significantly improved glucose metabolism and reduced the prevalence of type 2 diabetes, regardless of genetic risk.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateAug 7, 2024

Hidden Harmonies

Researchers discovered a novel energy transfer channel between magnons and phonons in an antiferromagnet under Fermi resonance, enabling future control of such systems for faster data storage. This breakthrough could lead to increased operational frequencies and enhanced efficiency of magnetic writing.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024

St. Jude identifies SARS-CoV-2 “mimic” contributing to pediatric inflammatory syndrome

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found a link between a SARS-CoV-2 protein and the onset of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). A region of the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein shares high sequence and immunogenic similarities to human protein SNX8, sparking an inflammatory response.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024

Demystifying APE1: New findings on direct activation of ATM signaling by DNA single-strand breaks

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the function of APE1 in DNA damage response, showing that it promotes SSB-induced ATM DDR through two mechanisms. The study provides direct evidence for APE1's active role in activating ATM kinase to promote the repair of single-strand DNA damage.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Charlotte·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024

Breakthrough study reveals molecular subtypes of Down syndrome, offering insights for personalized medicine approaches

Researchers have identified distinct molecular and immune subtypes across individuals with Down syndrome, providing new insights for personalized medicine approaches. The study's findings could lead to tailored diagnostics and therapeutic approaches, addressing the unique manifestations of co-occurring conditions.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 7, 2024

Pixels to pasture: how AI can help farmers predict their pasture

Researchers developed a machine learning-based system to analyze satellite data and provide farmers with information on pasture productivity and quality. The approach uses remote sensing and AI-driven processing to gather data on large areas, providing a scale-neutral solution for small- and large-scale farms.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalRemote Sensing Applications Society and Environment·DateAug 7, 2024

Wake Forest University School of Medicine receives $3.2 million grant to study financial hardship intervention in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors

Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine will test a multilevel intervention, FinFit, to address financial hardship among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. The five-year trial aims to reduce financial burden by targeting education, insurance, and financial asset levels.

World’s highest-performance superconducting wire segment fabricated at UB

Researchers at the University of Buffalo have successfully fabricated the world's highest-performing high-temperature superconducting (HTS) wire segment, achieving critical current density and pinning force values previously unseen. The breakthrough could significantly improve the price-performance metric for commercial coated conducto...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024