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Science News for August 8, 2024


Are birds flying atoms?

A new study by an international team, including MIT and CNRS, observed that similarities exist between the behavior of birds in flight and physical systems. The research suggests that the transition from disorder to coordination is not as different between particles and biological elements as previously thought.

SourceSissa Medialab·JournalJournal of Statistical Mechanics Theory and Experiment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2024

Evaluating the impact of database choice and confidence score on metagenomic taxonomic classification using Kraken2

The study evaluated the impact of database choice and confidence score on Kraken2's classification performance. Higher confidence scores generally decreased classification rates in smaller databases, while larger databases maintained higher rates and showed improved precision and F1 scores with increasing confidence.

Battling bugs with big data: sweetpotato's genomic-metagenomic pest shield

Researchers developed a genomic-metagenomic approach to predict pest resistance in sweetpotatoes, identifying key genes involved in defense mechanisms. The study found correlations between insect pests and microbial communities within the plant's metagenome, revealing new strategies for breeding resistant varieties.

New two-step flu vaccine strategy shows promise in pig model

A novel two-step vaccination strategy has been developed to combat seasonal flu, pairing an intramuscular injection with a nasal spray of a weakened live-virus. The approach resulted in a strong immune response and reduced shedding of the vaccine candidate from the upper respiratory tract.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2024

Dissolvable microneedle patch enables local delivery of immunomodulatory microparticles containing bifunctional molecules for periodontal tissue regeneration

Researchers developed a dissolvable microneedle patch to deliver immunomodulatory microparticles containing bifunctional molecules, such as azithromycin, to treat periodontitis. The patch demonstrated therapeutic outcomes by suppressing bacterial growth and modulating immune responses in both in vitro and in vivo studies.

Cleveland Clinic study adds to increasing evidence that sugar substitute erythritol raises cardiovascular risk

A new study by the Cleveland Clinic found that consuming foods with erythritol increases the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke. The artificial sweetener makes platelets more active, which can raise blood clot risks. This research adds to evidence that erythritol may not be as safe as previously thought.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalArteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology·DateAug 8, 2024

Rising nighttime temperatures disrupt plant metabolism: a review calls for adaptive strategies

High nighttime temperatures accelerate leaf senescence, disrupt cellular membranes, and increase respiration rates in plants. Understanding the key metabolic pathways and molecular mechanisms involved is crucial for developing genetic modifications, breeding strategies, and management practices to enhance plant resilience.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalGrass Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2024

Eating for necessity or pleasure? There is a brain circuit for that

A study published in Nature Metabolism reveals neural circuits in the mouse brain that promote hunger-driven feeding and suppress pleasure-driven eating. The discovery of a specific group of neurons called diagonal band of Broca (DBB) Penk neurons that regulates balanced feeding is promising for developing strategies to combat obesity.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2024

The olfactory performance of family dogs was tested by hungarian ethologists The olfactory performance of family dogs was tested by Hungarian ethologists

Researchers from Eötvös Loránd University found temperature and humidity have no impact on dogs' ability to detect scents. However, indoor testing outperformed outdoor environments due to distracting stimuli. Age also plays a role, with 2-3 year old dogs exhibiting superior olfactory performance.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2024

Hebrew SeniorLife’s Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research to launch food study

A large clinical food trial will be conducted to test the effects of a combination of probiotics and prebiotics on bone health in women aged 60 years and above. The study aims to develop potentially safe and inexpensive dietary interventions for osteopenia and osteoporosis.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 8, 2024

Nature at risk in the hunt for the perfect selfie

Research collaboration highlights social media's detrimental effects on nature, including disrupted breeding patterns and trampling of endangered plant species. However, the study also emphasizes photography as a powerful tool for conservation and education.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 8, 2024

Women at risk of ‘digital overload’ – new research reveals

A new study by Lancaster University highlights that women are more likely than men to experience 'digital overload' and burnout due to their greater use of digital technologies in both work and family lives. The research emphasizes the need for gender-egalitarian work-from-home arrangements and policies to address this issue.

SourceLancaster University·JournalCommunity Work & Family·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 8, 2024

HKUST develops groundbreaking artificial compound eye to revolutionize robotic vision at lower cost but higher sensitivity

The research team at HKUST has developed a novel artificial compound eye system that offers a high sensitivity at least twice that of existing market products. This innovation can be applied in various scenarios, such as drone navigation and emergency rescue.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2024

The first universal principles for designing solid-state batteries developed by Korean researchers

Researchers from KIER and UNIST developed the first universal design principles and toolkit 'SolidXCell' for solid-state batteries, increasing energy density and reducing fire risk. The pouch cell produced based on these principles demonstrated an energy density of 310Wh/kg, surpassing commercial lithium batteries.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2024

Breakthrough in molecular control: new bioinspired double helix with switchable chirality

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science created a novel mechanical motif, double-helical monometallofoldamers, with controllable chiral switching properties. The new molecule can undergo inversion switching in response to external stimuli, paving the way for novel high-order molecular systems and molecular information processing.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2024

Machine learning approach helps researchers design better gene-delivery vehicles for gene therapy

Researchers at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard developed a machine-learning approach to design better AAVs for gene therapy. The tool helps engineer capsids with multiple desirable traits, such as targeting specific organs or working in multiple species. About 90% of predicted capsids successfully delivered cargo to human liver ...

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2024

UVA Engineering receives $900,000 grant to create character-building initiative

The University of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science will create a character-building initiative with the new grant. The ECSI aims to develop future leaders who are prepared and motivated to apply values in professional contexts. UVA Engineering is committed to integrating character education into its undergraduate curr...

Millions of years for plants to recover from global warming

A study by ETH Zurich scientists found that global warming's effects on plant recovery can last for thousands to millions of years. The research team discovered that the severity of climate shifts and the speed at which carbon is sequestered affect the duration of climate warming.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2024

Study: Flying keeps getting safer

A new MIT study analyzes airline safety trends over the past few decades and finds that commercial flight has become roughly twice as safe each decade since the 1960s. The study estimates that passengers are about 39 times safer than they were in the 1968-1977 period, with a 1 in 13.7 million risk of fatality per boarding.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Air Transport Management·DateAug 8, 2024

Construction and investigation of all-in-one microneedles complexed with functionalized polydiacetylene liposomes for improved in situ detection sensitivity

The study combines PDA liposomes with swellable microneedles to create a solid-phase detection system, enabling integration of target sampling and detection. The platform demonstrates enhanced pH sensing capabilities and can detect lead ions and sialic acid with lower limits of detection compared to liquid-phase matrices.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalhLife·DateAug 8, 2024

Towards high quality transferred barium titanate ferroelectric hybrid integrated modulator on silicon

Researchers developed a high-quality transferred barium titanate ferroelectric hybrid integrated modulator on silicon, overcoming limitations in light modulation. The new method enables optimized thickness and rotation angle to enhance EO modulation efficiency, achieving V π L as low as 1.67 V˜m.

Flow of sweetness: key sugar transporters identified for enhanced Camellia seed growth

A recent study investigates the mechanisms of sugar import in developing seeds of Camellia oleifera, identifying key sugar transporters that facilitate efficient sugar import and partitioning. The research provides insights into the molecular regulation of seed development and offers potential strategies to enhance seed yield and quality.

Distinct pattern in protein production can predict severe side effects from skin cancer treatment

Researchers found that a specific pattern of gene activity can predict which melanoma patients are likely to experience severe side effects from immunotherapy. The study identified a heightened gene signature, known as the spleen tyrosine kinase pathway, as the key indicator of increased risk.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateAug 8, 2024

Saliva indicates severity of recurrent respiratory infections in children

A saliva test has been found to be more accurate than a blood test in assessing the severity of recurrent respiratory infections in children. The test measures broadly protective antibodies in saliva, which indicate disease burden and predict treatment needs. Saliva testing also holds promise for new treatments and therapies.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2024

Does physical isolation increase loneliness?

A new study using COVID-19 lockdown data in Australia found that physical isolation made little difference to reported feelings of loneliness. Instead, the quality of social interactions and supportive networks were key factors in alleviating loneliness. Young people and extroverts showed increased loneliness during lockdowns.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of Economic Behavior & Organization·TypeSurvey·DateAug 8, 2024

Study finds sclerotherapy can be successfully used by patients of all skin types, ethnic backgrounds

A new study from Boston University finds that sclerotherapy is safe and effective in patients with skin of color, but may cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation at a higher rate. The treatment is safe for all skin types when conducted by trained professionals.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2024

Record-breaking recovery of rocks that originated in Earth’s mantle could reveal secrets of planet’s history

An international team has recovered a nearly continuous 1,268-metre-long section of rocks that originated in the Earth's mantle, providing insights into the role of the mantle in the origins of life on Earth, volcanic activity, and global cycles. The study also reveals new information about how magma is formed and feeds volcanoes.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2024

The long-lasting impact of war on global diabetes prevalence

A new study by the Complexity Science Hub estimates that the ongoing war in Ukraine could lead to up to 180,000 additional cases of type 2 diabetes worldwide due to supply chain disruptions and food shortages. Malnutrition during early pregnancy is also linked to increased risk of developing diabetes later in life.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2024

New membrane technology developed by NYU Abu Dhabi researchers could lead to more effective and efficient water purification systems

The NYU Abu Dhabi team has developed a new type of dual-faced membrane that effectively purifies water from contaminants and boasts strong antibacterial properties. The microwave-mediated synthesis method allows precise control over the membrane's properties, enabling efficient removal of pollutants.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 8, 2024

Alcohol use in older adults doubles risk of brain bleeds from falls

A recent study published by Florida Atlantic University found that occasional alcohol use increases the odds of intracranial hemorrhage by double when compared to those who do not drink. Daily alcohol consumption is associated with a 150% increased risk of brain bleeds from falls.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of the American College of Emergency Physicians Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 8, 2024

Reconstruction of particle distribution for tomographic particle image velocimetry based on unsupervised learning method

Researchers develop an unsupervised deep learning-based method to reconstruct particle distribution in Tomographic PIV, achieving superior performance over traditional methods. The new technique demonstrates potential for practical applications in high-density particle fields and high-velocity flow fields.

SourceParticuology·JournalParticuology·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 8, 2024

USC researchers develop AI model that predicts the accuracy of protein–DNA binding

A new AI model, Deep Predictor of Binding Specificity (DeepPBS), can accurately predict protein-DNA binding across different types of proteins. This tool allows for the prediction of binding specificity from protein-DNA complex structures, reducing the need for high-throughput sequencing or structural biology experiments.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Methods·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 8, 2024

Detecting climate change using aerosols

Researchers developed a new metric, R_AOD, to detect climate change using aerosols as tracers. They analyzed long-term satellite data and found significant temporal variations in aerosol transport, highlighting shifts in transboundary pollution pathways due to global warming.

SourceChiba University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2024

Pusan National University researchers use artificial intelligence to create powerful sound-dampening materials

A new deep learning-based inverse design method allows for the optimization of complex acoustic metamaterials, reducing noise pollution while maintaining ventilation. The approach enables ultra-broadband sound attenuation across various peak frequencies.

SourcePusan National University·JournalEngineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2024

Increasing clinicians’ knowledge about climate change’s impact on health and healthcare sustainability

A recent survey-based study found that physicians at Massachusetts General Hospital who completed climate change-focused educational modules showed significant improvements in their knowledge and attitudes towards the topic. The majority of participants believed that education on climate change's health effects was important and welcom...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeSurvey·DateAug 8, 2024

Link found between sociocultural institutions in ethnic enclaves and resident health

A study by UC Irvine researchers found that a high presence of sociocultural institutions in ethnic enclaves is associated with better health indicators, including higher vaccination rates and lower smoking rates. The research suggests that supporting these institutions may help lessen health inequities by race and ethnicity.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateAug 8, 2024

SNU researchers develop technology to predict the deformation of DNA origami structures induced by DNA-binding molecules

Researchers at Seoul National University have developed a technology to quickly predict the mechanochemical shape changes of DNA origami structures based on the concentration of binding molecules. This methodology enables the design of tunable DNA origami structures that can change shape as needed, contributing to advancements in DNA n...

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2024

Concern for children is key driver of advertising complaints

A study found that 46% of advertising complaints were due to concerns about the wellbeing of children, while graphic portrayals accounted for 20%. Researchers call on advertisers to test their ads with vulnerable groups and regulators to consider different management strategies. Charities had the most complained-about adverts, followed...

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Nonprofit & Public Sector Marketing·DateAug 8, 2024

An interpretable deep learning modeling architecture considering process underlying logics reveals a promising way to the intelligent chemical industry

A new interpretable deep learning modeling architecture, LACG, is proposed to handle complex variable interactions in chemical processes. It achieves high-accuracy modeling results via the coupling of three sub-modules based on underlying logics. The model outperforms widely used neural networks in terms of interpretability.

SourceEngineering·JournalEngineering·DateAug 8, 2024

Recurrent wheezing in children linked to 'silent' viral infections

Research from the University of Virginia School of Medicine reveals that nearly a quarter of children with recurrent wheezing have undetected lung infections that do not respond to commonly prescribed steroids. The study suggests that antiviral medications such as azithromycin may be a more effective treatment for these cases.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateAug 8, 2024

Houston Methodist study shows new, more precise way to deliver medicine to the brain

Researchers at Houston Methodist have developed a more accurate way to deliver life-saving drug therapies to the brain, using an electric field to infuse medicine into specific targets. This innovation has the potential to improve gene therapy and tumor treatment, as well as treatment for traumatic brain injury and degenerative diseases.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2024

Prioritizing the elderly for COVID-19 boosters reduces overall deaths

A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that prioritizing older individuals for booster vaccination consistently leads to the best public health outcomes, regardless of economic level or age category. This strategy is more effective than vaccinating younger individuals with the most contacts.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2024

Study shows donor kidneys with toxoplasma do not increase risks for transplant patients

Researchers analyzed 51,000 transplants and found rejection and graft failure rates were similar for toxoplasma-positive and negative donor kidneys. The study suggests it is safe to transplant toxoplasma-positive kidneys with additional monitoring, potentially increasing the supply of donor kidneys.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalTransplant International·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 8, 2024

The search for the earliest traces of life on Earth

Researchers from the University of Ottawa and Carleton University have re-examined the carbon in 3.9-billion-year-old Canadian rocks, challenging previous interpretations that they showed signs of biological life. The study found that graphite in these rocks may have formed without organic life through a carbon-extraction process.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 8, 2024

Record-breaking 1.2-kilometer drill core unveils new insights into Earth's mantle

A nearly continuous 1268-meter-long drill core of serpentinized abyssal mantle peridotite has provided new insights into Earth's deep geology and the potential biogeochemical conditions involved in the origins of life. The findings reveal significant mineralogical variations, including low pyroxene content and oblique melt migration.

Cannabis use and head and neck cancer

A cohort study found an association between cannabis-related disorder and the development of head and neck cancer. The study highlights the need for further research on the mechanism of this association and dose response to support evidence of cannabis use as a risk factor.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateAug 8, 2024

TCR CDR3s and renalase-1 linked to increased melanoma survival

Researchers identified a potential antigen for TCR recognition in melanoma, suggesting that RNLS protein could be recognized by T cells leading to local immune responses against the cancer. The study found that chemical complementarity between melanoma-resident TCR CDR3s and renalase-1 protein correlates with increased melanoma survival.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeNews article·DateAug 8, 2024

Microbes conquer the next extreme environment: Your microwave

A study found that microwaves contain a unique microbial community, comprising 747 different genera, which resembles those on solar panels and kitchen surfaces. The diversity of the microbiome varies between single-household kitchens, shared domestic spaces, and laboratory microwaves.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateAug 8, 2024

Early mammals lived longer

Researchers analyzed fossilized tooth roots of ancient mammals, finding growth rings that revealed lifespans of eight to fourteen years. These early mammals grew more slowly but lived substantially longer than their modern descendants.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 8, 2024

Surprise: infected bacteria fight back with “hidden” genes that halt cell growth, slow viral spread

Researchers discovered that infected bacteria produce a new gene, dubbed 'Neo', which rapidly arrests cell growth and induces programmed dormancy. This mechanism protects the larger bacterial population from phage infection, highlighting the potential for other 'hidden' genes to be unearthed in different biological contexts.

Drug shows promise for treating brain tumors resulting from breast cancer, UT Health San Antonio trial reports

A trial at UT Health San Antonio found that Sacituzumab Govitecan was well-tolerated and showed signs of effectiveness for patients with breast cancer who had progressed to brain tumors. The drug has been shown to deliver a topoisomerase inhibitor into tumors, providing promising clinical signals of efficacy.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 8, 2024

Promoting healthy teen romantic relationships to reduce risk of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections

A new multi-site randomized-controlled study evaluates an innovative healthy relationships program for teens. The study found the program may have influenced abstinence but not relationship communication, highlighting the need for tailored program components to address unique environmental contexts.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateAug 8, 2024

Prioritize well-being over growth: new paradigm needed for climate-friendly lifestyles

A new EU study suggests that focusing on citizens' needs rather than economic growth is crucial for achieving sustainable lifestyles. The research identifies the economic growth paradigm as a major barrier to transformation, and recommends a needs-oriented approach to ensure well-being and sustainability.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalSustainability Science Practice and Policy·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2024

A ‘thank you’ goes a long way in family relationships

A study found that perceived gratitude from romantic partners and older children positively impacts individuals' psychological well-being and reduces parenting stress. Expressing gratitude within the family can promote a climate of appreciation, teaching children to acknowledge others' efforts.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Positive Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 8, 2024

High nitrogen input promotes the redistribution of new organic carbon to deeper soil layers

A recent study found that high nitrogen fertilizer application significantly enhances soil carbon sequestration, primarily through vertical transport of organic matter. This redistribution leads to a greater distribution of new organic carbon in deeper soil layers, resulting in increased soil carbon storage.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2024