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Science News for December 10, 2024


Relative correction of experimental results as training data are crucial for optimizing culture media using machine learning

Cell culture medium optimization is crucial for effective growth of cells, as the medium determines the culture results. Researchers developed a machine learning model that optimizes the composition of the medium based on training data, achieving higher cell concentrations than commercially available media.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBiochemical Engineering Journal·DateDec 10, 2024

When does waiting stop being worth it?

A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience examines how different parts of the prefrontal cortex guide decisions to persist or quit. Participants with damage to specific regions waited less overall, particularly when persistence was optimal, highlighting the brain's role in evaluating subjective value and adapting to real-time fe...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024

Family income predicts adult problems more than neighborhood poverty

A new study published in the Journal of Public Health found that household income is a stronger predictor of several major health-related problems for 17-year-olds than growing up in a poor neighborhood. The study also found that family income has a more consistent impact on health outcomes across different neighborhood groups.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 10, 2024

Autologous stem cell transplants do not improve survival for mantle cell lymphoma patients with undetectable MRD, clinical trial shows

A phase 3 trial shows that autologous stem cell transplants do not improve survival for mantle cell lymphoma patients in complete remission and undetectable minimal residual disease. Patients who remain MRD-positive after induction may benefit from ASCT, but longer follow-up is needed to confirm these findings.

SourceECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 10, 2024

Empowering older adults with home-care robots

A study found that user participation and perspective are crucial in developing home-care technology. Common factors across countries include familiarity with robots and a positive impression of them. Japan values convenience, Ireland prioritizes notifying family members, and Finland emphasizes design. These findings highlight the impo...

SourceChiba University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeSurvey·DateDec 10, 2024

SABCS: Improved survival for advanced breast cancer, using genomics to identify patients with high risk of recurrence, how race/ethnicity influence the risk of heart failure in early-stage breast cancer and more

Researchers at UCLA Health presented several breakthroughs at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, including improved survival rates for advanced breast cancer patients who receive trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd), a novel ADC. Additionally, new genomic testing and circulating tumor DNA analysis may help identify high-risk patients a...

Machine learning prediction of human intelligence

Researchers used machine learning to predict multiple types of intelligence from brain connections, with general intelligence performing best. The model's accuracy improved when trained on theory-driven connections, suggesting there are still unknown aspects of intelligence to discover.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 10, 2024

Cutting early life exposure to parental smoking may lower MS risk in genetically prone

Research published online in Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry found that cutting early life exposure to parental smoking may lower the risk of developing MS in those who are genetically predisposed. The study also showed an interplay between genetic and environmental risk factors for MS, associated with certain aspects of...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateDec 10, 2024

Almost half of young vapers are able to stop with quitline help

A new study found that almost half of young people who vape were able to stop using quitline coaching, potentially improving their health and decreasing the chances they'll transition to cigarettes. The research team is optimistic about this approach for disrupting vaping behavior among young adults.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 10, 2024

ESMT Berlin research shows how AI is revolutionizing open innovation

A recent study by ESMT Berlin scholars presents a comprehensive framework detailing the impact of AI on open innovation. The framework highlights three key ways in which AI is transforming open innovation practices: enhancing existing methods through efficiency and scalability, enabling new forms of collaboration and business models, a...

SourceESMT Berlin·JournalCalifornia Management Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 10, 2024

The Lagomarsino Prize from the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT) awarded researchers Marco Celotto and Simone Russo

Marco Celotto and Simone Russo were awarded the Lagomarsino Prize for their groundbreaking research in neuroscience, which combined excellent scientific results with outstanding methods for data analysis, data management, and Open Science. Their work has led to pioneering discoveries on brain stimulation and its potential applications ...

What happens in the ocean when two cyclones collide

When two tropical cyclones collide in the Indian Ocean, they can intensify considerably, leading to extreme interactions between the ocean and atmosphere. The study found that effects occurred that have only been observed with much stronger cyclones, including a cooling effect of three degrees Celsius and upwelling of deep water masses.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalTellus A Dynamic Meteorology and Oceanography·TypeCase study·DateDec 10, 2024

Scientists develop cost-effective lasers for extended SWIR applications

Scientists have created cost-effective lasers for the extended Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) range by utilizing colloidal quantum dots. This breakthrough addresses scalability and affordability challenges in current laser technologies, enabling diverse applications such as hazardous gas detection, eye-safe LIDAR systems, and advanced phot...

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 10, 2024

Pusan National University scientists designed a new model to predict metal wear for safer, lighter cars and planes

Researchers at Pusan National University developed a hybrid model to predict metal wear in magnesium alloys, enabling safer, lighter designs. The model combines machine learning and physics to improve fatigue life prediction, offering greater predictive reliability for enhanced safety and longevity.

SourcePusan National University·JournalJournal of Magnesium and Alloys·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 10, 2024

Making self-driving cars safer, less accident prone

A new AI model developed at the University of Georgia predicts nearby traffic movements and incorporates innovative features for planning safe vehicle movements. This approach helps reduce crashes and near-misses by consolidating two steps: predicting surrounding traffic movements and planning a self-driving car's motion.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalTransportation Research·DateDec 10, 2024

Rethinking the quantum chip

Researchers at UChicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering have designed a new architecture for scaling up superconducting quantum devices. The modular design allows for flexible operability and enables the connection of any two qubits within a few nanoseconds, promoting high-fidelity quantum gates and entanglement.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPhysical Review X·DateDec 10, 2024

Researchers call on the European Commission to protect groundwater and subterranean life from pollution

A group of international scientists is urging the European Commission to implement protective measures for subterranean ecosystems, which store 97% of the world's drinking water and harbor unique biodiversity. Regular surveys of subterranean fauna can reveal the health of these ecosystems, which are sensitive to contaminants.

New concept for sustainable fuel cell polymer electrolytes overcomes barriers in high-temperature, low-humidity use, advancing net-zero carbon goals

Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a novel fuel cell electrolyte concept using phosphonic acid polymers with hydrocarbon spacers. The new membrane exhibits improved water insolubility, chemical stability and conductivity under high-temperature and low-humidity conditions.

SourceNagoya University·JournalACS Applied Polymer Materials·DateDec 10, 2024

Shape-changing device helps visually impaired people perform location task as well as sighted people - EMBARGO: Tuesday 10 December (10:00 UK time)

A new shape-changing device called Shape has been developed to help people with visual impairment perform a location task as effectively as sighted people. The study found that participants with visual impairment located targets significantly faster using Shape than with vibration technology, and preferred it over current methods.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateDec 10, 2024

The best AI strategy to recognize multiple objects in one image

Researchers from Bar-Ilan University discover that classifying objects together through Multi-Label Classification can yield better results than detecting individual objects. This new method allows networks to learn correlations between object combinations, making them more recognizable in real-life applications such as autonomous vehi...

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalPhysica A Statistical Mechanics and its Applications·DateDec 10, 2024

Annals of Thoracic Surgery short reports now indexed in PubMed Central provides greater access to cardiothoracic research

Annals of Thoracic Surgery Short Reports has been accepted for indexing in PubMed Central, enhancing its reach and impact within the global medical community. The journal is on pace for 750 submissions in 2024, with over 400 articles published across eight electronic issues, attracting more than 240,000 page views or downloads.

Race, ethnicity, and sleep in us children

Racially and ethnically minoritized US children experience disparities in mean levels and variability of sleep compared to white peers. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing multiple sleep dimensions across diverse racial and ethnic groups to achieve equitable pediatric sleep health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 10, 2024

Heavy rains deliver largest amounts of fertilizer-derived nitrogen pollution to the Gulf of Mexico, new study finds

A new study finds that heavy rains deliver the greatest amounts of fertilizer-derived nitrogen through creeks and rivers into the northern Gulf of Mexico. The research can be used to develop policies to protect the gulf from nutrient overloading, harmful algal blooms, and oxygen-depleted 'dead zones'.

SourceBoston College·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024

Discovery of new growth-directed graphene stacking domains may precede new era for quantum applications

Researchers at NYU Tandon School of Engineering have discovered new growth-directed graphene stacking domains that can be self-assembled without manual twisting or alignment. These domains are well-suited for enabling unconventional quantum Hall effects, superconductivity, and charge density waves.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024

More attention should be paid to the health of deep soil in low-yield farmland!

A recent study highlights the importance of deep soil health in improving crop productivity on low-yielding farmland. Researchers found that improving surface soil health can increase wheat yield, while a complex microbial network is essential for maintaining soil health and crop productivity.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024

Better environmental performance boosts profits and cuts costs

Researchers analyzed financial and environmental data from 8,547 companies across 34 countries, revealing that stronger environmental engagement leads to better financial outcomes. Companies with superior environmental performance demonstrate better financial results and attract greater interest from investors.

SourceKyushu University·JournalCorporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 10, 2024

AI predicts Earth’s peak warming

Researchers trained an AI system to predict future warming based on climate model simulations and historical temperature data. The study suggests that even in the best-case scenario, global warming will likely exceed 2 degrees Celsius, with severe impacts expected in regions such as South Asia and Central Europe.

SourceStanford University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 10, 2024

Could Africa’s largest water dispute be avoided with open science?

Researchers suggest a scientific framework to operate the Nile's mega dams during droughts, balancing sustainable hydropower generation with minimizing downstream water deficit. The framework aims to increase resilience for over 300 million inhabitants in the Eastern Nile Basin living under uncertain climatic projections.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 10, 2024

High-speed rail and regional environmental inequality

The introduction of high-speed rail between 1998 and 2010 spread green technologies and reduced industrial pollution across lagging regions, particularly in central inland provinces and northeastern areas. This led to a 0.49%–1.70% reduction in national industrial pollution and increased patent filings for green technology patents.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 10, 2024

U.S. medical students, residents receive limited training on treating current and formerly incarcerated

A new study reveals that medical schools are not teaching doctors to care for the incarcerated or formerly incarcerated population, who face significant chronic health issues. Approximately 95% of those incarcerated will return to the community, but medical providers are not prepared to serve them.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 10, 2024

The biomechanics of the rose prickle

The rose prickle's curved tapering shape and microstructural density enable supreme damage resistance capabilities. Researchers propose that these features could be used to develop ultra-small anchoring tools for diverse applications.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 10, 2024

Woodburning creates major PM2.5 air pollution issue in UK West Midlands

A new study reveals woodburning contributes significantly to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in the region, accounting for 25% of total PM2.5 mass. The experts recommend targeted measures to mitigate health risks associated with woodburning activities, including raising public awareness and promoting cleaner alternatives.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalAtmospheric Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024

Advancing the synthesis of two-dimensional gold monolayers

Scientists at Lund University and Hokkaido University have successfully synthesized 2D gold monolayers with remarkable thermal stability and potential catalytic utility. The team used a novel bottom-up approach combined with high-performance computations to create macroscopically large gold monolayers with unique nanostructured patterns.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024

New study a first step in understanding current practice patterns of treatment for sarcoidosis

Researchers found variation in practice patterns of sarcoidosis treatment, particularly in the use of nonsteroidal immunosuppressive medications and sequence of administration. The study highlights the need for future randomized trials and comparative effectiveness studies to ascertain optimal treatment algorithms.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalCHEST Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 10, 2024

Particle that only has mass when moving in one direction observed for first time

Researchers at Penn State and Columbia University have observed a type of quasiparticle called a semi-Dirac fermion that has mass when moving in one direction but not in the other. The discovery, made using a technique called magneto-optical spectroscopy, could lead to advances in emerging technologies such as batteries and sensors.

SourcePenn State·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024

MD Anderson and AmMax Bio announce agreements to advance development of AMB-066 in colorectal cancer patients with minimal residual disease

The collaboration aims to evaluate the potential of AMB-066 as a first-in-class treatment option for patients with colorectal cancer and minimal residual disease. MD Anderson researchers have identified a potential opportunity for AMB-066 to effectively treat MRD-positive CRC, based on robust preclinical data.

T-cell receptor repertoire analysis in the context of transarterial chemoembolization synergy with systemic therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma

Research suggests that T-cell receptor repertoire analysis can inform treatment responses and predict efficacy in combination therapies for HCC. Advances in sequencing technologies are refining our understanding of tumor-immune interactions and adaptive immune mechanisms.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateDec 10, 2024

New review highlights variant-specific differences in long COVID, underscoring vaccine role and future directions for research and care

A recent review examines how SARS-CoV-2 variants impact long COVID symptoms, revealing key differences in clinical manifestations and vaccination effectiveness. The study suggests that vaccinations significantly reduce both acute and long-term symptoms, making a critical contribution to managing the condition.

First evidence in the Levant (and among the first in the world) of communal worship in caves and the development of religious rituals

A 35,000-year-old ritual complex in the Manot Cave offers insight into the spiritual practices of Paleolithic hunter-gatherer groups. The discovery reveals evidence of human-made engravings, ash remains from fire, and acoustic tests that suggest a unique auditory experience for communal activities.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 2024

Milan under stress due to heat waves: study reveals districts most at risk of cardiovascular emergencies

A study by Politecnico di Milano reveals districts most at risk of cardiovascular emergencies during heat waves in Milan. The research found that 23% of the city's population in 18 vulnerable districts face a 22% increased risk, while 20 low-vulnerability districts show no significant increase.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalPopulation and Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 10, 2024

The impact of government assistance, housing, and employment on postpartum maternal health across income and race

A study reveals that lower-income and minority mothers face disproportionate challenges in postpartum health due to inadequate social support systems. The research emphasizes the need for targeted policy interventions to improve maternal health equity, strengthen postpartum care, and reduce health disparities.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalBMC Public Health·DateDec 10, 2024

Buyers need market orientation and strategic capability to create customer value in public procurement

A recent study from the University of Eastern Finland found that a market-oriented organisational culture is positively associated with strategic procurement capability, which predicts the use of public procurement of innovations to create customer value. The study highlights the importance of both market orientation and strategic proc...

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScience and Public Policy·DateDec 10, 2024

Young children less likely than adults to see discrimination as harmful

A new study by New York University psychology researchers found that young children in the US are less likely than adults to view discriminatory acts as harmful. However, by the age of 8, children begin to recognize discrimination as more harmful when targeting certain groups. The study suggests the importance of teaching children abou...

SourceNew York University·JournalCognitive Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024

Sculpting the brain (without chisel or scalpel)

Researchers use real-time neuroimaging and neurofeedback to modify brain activity patterns, enabling faster learning and treatment of psychiatric disorders. The study demonstrates the ability to inscribe new patterns into the brain without physical manipulation.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024

Geriatric surgery verification program can improve outcomes for older cancer patients in community hospitals

The American College of Surgeons Geriatric Surgery Verification program significantly decreases hospital stays among older cancer patients, increasing their independence and likelihood of discharge home. The program addresses the unique needs of older adults undergoing major abdominal oncologic procedures.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateDec 10, 2024

A socio-economic perspective on green hydrogen as a sustainable operations strategy

A study analyzed the socio-economic feasibility of green hydrogen production in southern Italy, estimating a Levelized Cost of Hydrogen (LCOH) of €3.60/kg. Public acceptance of wind power installations was found to be linked to willingness to pay (WTP), with 68.6% of LCOH values clustering between 3.20 and 4.00 €/kg

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalSustainable Operations and Computers·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024

What social rejection teaches your brain

A USC study reveals that forming social ties relies on learning from positive outcomes, such as rewards, and tracking relational value. The findings help explain why we are drawn to certain people and how we navigate relationships, with implications for mental health and social behavior.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateDec 10, 2024

10,000 times faster than traditional methods: new computational framework automatically discovers experimental designs in microscopy

Researchers have developed an AI framework called XLuminA that autonomously discovers new experimental designs in microscopy. The framework performs optimizations 10,000 times faster than well-established methods, opening the path for exploring completely new territories in microscopy.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Science of Light·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 10, 2024

Chungnam National University researchers uncover breakthrough in copper-zinc electrodes for electrochemical CO₂ reduction

Researchers at Chungnam National University have developed copper-zinc electrodes that can stabilize over time through recycling, preserving their catalytic effectiveness and selectivity for valuable hydrocarbons. This innovation has significant implications for the conversion of CO₂ into sustainable fuels or chemicals.

SourceChungnam National University Evaluation Team·JournalApplied Surface Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024

Wild birds’ gut microbiome linked with its ornamentation and body condition

A new study has linked the diversity of a wild bird's gut microbiome with its ornamentation and body condition. Researchers found that a cardinal's gut microbiome can be predicted by its body condition, and the quality of its ornamentation, such as red plumage and beak. This discovery has important applications for conservation biology.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalOikos·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024

American Psychiatric Association publishes updated practice guideline on the treatment of borderline personality disorder

The updated practice guideline provides recommendations for evidence-based assessment, treatment planning, and psychosocial interventions, as well as pharmacotherapy treatments. It highlights the effectiveness of structured psychotherapies in treating borderline personality disorder and notes that no pharmacotherapy has been found to b...

Delivering medicines with microscopic flowers

Scientists have created a new class of microscopic flower particles that can guide medicines to specific locations in the body and be easily tracked using ultrasound. The particles' unique shape and structure allow them to absorb large amounts of active substance molecules, making them an effective carrier for targeted medication deliv...

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 10, 2024