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Science News for December 11, 2024


Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prizes 2025

The 2025 Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prizes were awarded to four female and six male researchers, with two working in the humanities and social sciences, four in life sciences, three in natural sciences, and one in engineering sciences. The winners received €2.5 million each to fund their research for up to seven years.

The development and appraisal of MELD 3.0 in liver diseases: Good things never come easy

MELD 3.0 builds upon previous variants by incorporating serum albumin and gender to correct disparities in organ allocation, particularly for women. It demonstrates improved prognostication for various chronic liver diseases, including cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and acute-on-chronic liver failure.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateDec 11, 2024

Straining a material’s atomic arrangement may make for cleaner, smarter devices

A team of researchers at Penn State has developed a novel technique called strain tuning to precisely manipulate the atomic arrangement of materials. This process enables the creation of thin films with improved ferroelectric performance, paving the way for environmentally friendly advancements in consumer electronics and medical devices.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2024

Balancing act: the science behind BallBot control

Researchers discover that modifying BallBot's body mass and ball size can significantly improve its balancing abilities, enabling more stable and reliable robots. The study introduces a Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) controller to fine-tune the robot's movements, allowing for improved balance and stability in dynamic environments.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalInternational Journal of Mechanical System Dynamics·DateDec 11, 2024

Adoption of AI calls for new kind of communication competence from sales managers

The study found that integrating AI into sales teams requires sales managers to combine traditional interpersonal communication competence with new AI-related skills. Effective communication involves motivation, knowledge, empathy, and adaptability, as well as crafting effective prompts to AI and maintaining a polite tone.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalIndustrial Marketing Management·DateDec 11, 2024

University of Virginia's Silvia Blemker recognized by NAI for advancing muscle health through innovation

Silvia Blemker, a University of Virginia biomedical engineer, has been elected Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI) for her work on muscle health. Her patented technology, Image-based Identification of Muscle Abnormalities, uses advanced imaging and analytics to provide detailed insights into muscle health.

MD Anderson’s Lauren Averett Byers receives TAMEST O’Donnell Award for seminal contributions to lung cancer research

Lauren Averett Byers, a professor at MD Anderson Cancer Center, has received the 2025 Edith and Peter O'Donnell Award in Medicine from Texas Academy of Medicine, Engineering, Science and Technology (TAMEST) for her fundamental discoveries in small cell lung cancer. Her work has led to personalized treatments and improved patient outcomes.

Brain mechanisms underpinning loss of consciousness identified

A team of researchers at Penn State has pinpointed the exact moment of loss of consciousness due to anesthesia by mapping what happens in different brain regions during that moment. The study found that rapid activity in the medial prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and thalamus triggers loss of consciousness.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2024

Having a good breakfast reduces cardiovascular risk

Consuming 20-30% of daily energy at breakfast is associated with lower body mass index, smaller waist circumference, significantly lower triglyceride levels, and higher HDL cholesterol. A high-quality breakfast with proper balance of proteins, fats, fiber, and nutrients also contributes to reducing cardiovascular risk factors.

SourceIMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute)·JournalThe journal of nutrition health & aging·DateDec 11, 2024

How helicopter parenting protects baby reef fish

Researchers discovered a species of damselfish actively eating gnathiid isopods, which are common reef parasites, to protect their young. This unique 'great fish parenting' behavior increased the survival rate of juvenile fish by three times.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2024

Team’s sequential control policy framework offers high success in multiple peg-in-hole assembly tasks

A research team at Tsinghua University Press has developed a sequential control policy framework that offers high success in multiple peg-in-hole assembly tasks. The framework improves robots' performance by adapting to different working scenarios, including object geometry and pose, with higher training efficiency and faster convergence.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalCAAI Artificial Intelligence Research·DateDec 11, 2024

Unlocking next-gen chip efficiency: UVA researchers confirm thermal insights for tiny circuits

Researchers at UVA confirmed a key principle governing heat flow in thin metal films, providing a breakthrough in understanding thermal conductivity. The validation of Matthiessen's rule paves the way for refining materials that interconnect circuits in advanced computer chips.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2024

New, simple, and natural method for producing vitamin B2

A team of researchers from DTU has successfully produced vitamin B2 using a novel, cost-effective, and climate-friendly method involving food-approved lactic acid bacteria. The production process requires only basic fermentation tools and can be integrated into traditional foods, enhancing public health and reducing environmental impact.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 11, 2024

Secret of the female orgasm uncovered by psychologists

A study by University of Essex researchers found that women who notice and attend to internal bodily signals, such as heartbeats and sensual touch sensations, experience more frequent orgasms. The research suggests that focusing on the body rather than the mind can lead to increased orgasm satisfaction.

SourceUniversity of Essex·JournalBrain Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2024

Persistent tobacco smoking from childhood may cause heart damage by the mid-twenties

A new study published in Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that persistent childhood tobacco smoking significantly increased the risk of premature heart damage by age 24. The study followed 1,931 children from age 10 to 24 and found that active smoking was associated with a 52% increased risk of heart damage.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 11, 2024

Chemical Insights Research Institute launches a new public service website with key information on protecting public health during wildland-urban interface (WUI) fires

The Chemical Insights Research Institute has launched a new public service website offering valuable guidance and tips for protecting community health before, during, and after wildfires. The site provides up-to-date information to help residents prepare for the health risks of wildfires in WUI areas.

Chung-Ang University researchers unveil the biogenesis and role of transfer RNA fragments in cancer progression

Researchers at Chung-Ang University have identified a crucial role for specific tRNA fragments in cancer progression, revealing their ability to regulate gene expression and influence tumor growth. The study suggests that these fragments could serve as biomarkers for early-stage cancer detection and targets for therapeutic interventions.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2024

Pre-seed funding to recolor the world greener

Kobe University has developed a new way to produce colors using nanospheres, which could reduce the environmental impact of paints and cosmetics. The technology uses silicon spheres to scatter light, creating bright and brilliant colors that do not fade or change with viewing angle.

Is ozone pollution harming unborn children?

A new study found a strong link between pregnant mothers' ozone exposures and increases in the chances of babies developing intellectual disabilities. The research, published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology, analyzed public health and air quality data from Utah's Wasatch Front.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2024

New proteomics method enables sensitive identification of ligand-binding proteins and their binding sites in complex system

A new proteomics method, peptide-centric local stability assay (PELSA), enables the simultaneous identification of ligand-binding proteins and their binding sites in complex systems. PELSA has been shown to have superior sensitivity in target protein identifications, identifying more kinase targets than state-of-the-art methods.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Methods·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 11, 2024

US veterans report average happiness levels of 5.41 out of 7, with greater happiness most associated with reporting greater purpose in life, lower depressive symptoms, and higher optimism, emotional stability, and resilience

US veterans reported an average happiness level of 5.41, with higher happiness tied to greater sense of purpose and lower depressive symptoms. The study also found strong associations between optimism, emotional stability, and resilience and increased happiness in veterans.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 11, 2024

Nature Biotechnology | Generative chemistry enables Insilico to develop gut-restricted PhD inhibitors promising for intestinal mucosal barrier repair and immunomodulation

Scientists at Insilico Medicine developed a novel gut-restricted PHD inhibitor using generative chemistry engine Chemistry42, promising to repair intestinal mucosal barriers and regulate immune responses in IBD. The compound, ISM5411, demonstrated significant anti-colitis activity without systemic side effects.

SourceInSilico Medicine·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateDec 11, 2024

Climate and Economy: Even less extreme but more frequent weather events, such as thunderstorms, have significant and lasting impacts that can exacerbate inequalities. Labor incomes are among the most affected

Researchers analyzed over 200,000 US weather events between 1991 and 2019 to find that wages experience persistent losses while incomes recover gradually. The poorest counties suffer more severe losses, highlighting the need for public intervention and adaptation policies.

SourceSant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, Pisa·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·DateDec 11, 2024

AI thought knee X-rays show if you drink beer — they don't

A study found that AI models can predict unrelated traits, such as whether patients abstained from eating refried beans or beer, with surprising accuracy by exploiting subtle patterns in data. The researchers emphasize the need for rigorous evaluation standards to prevent misleading conclusions and ensure scientific integrity.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 11, 2024

Milestone 10-GeV experiment shines light on laser-plasma interactions

Researchers successfully accelerated high-quality beams of electrons to over 10 billion electronvolts in 30 centimeters, producing a 'dark current-free' beam without wasting energy. The dual-laser system and advanced gas injector system enabled this record-breaking acceleration, marking a major step forward in laser-plasma acceleration.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 11, 2024

FunMap reveals a functional network of genes and proteins in human cancer

The study revealed a comprehensive functional network of 10,525 genes constructed using supervised machine learning that integrates protein datasets and RNA sequencing data from 11 cancer types. The approach identified protein modules and a hierarchical modular organization linked to cancer hallmarks and clinical characteristics.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Cancer·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 11, 2024

Global healthspan-lifespan gaps among 183 WHO member states

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open reveals significant disparities in healthspan-lifespan gaps among 183 WHO member states. Women globally exhibit a larger healthspan-lifespan gap compared to men, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities and promote healthy aging.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 11, 2024

New study reveals provincial and territorial inequities and inadequacies in access to medications and treatment for cardiovascular conditions in Canada

A new study reveals significant provincial and territorial variations in reimbursement criteria for cardiovascular medications in Canada. The current system leads to unequal access to evidence-based treatments, with the most vulnerable groups facing restricted access to life-saving medications.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 11, 2024

Low dielectric loss in vanadium-based zircon ceramics via high-entropy strategy

Researchers developed novel vanadium-based zircon ceramics using a high-entropy strategy, achieving optimal microwave dielectric properties including low εr and high Q×f values. The ceramics exhibit improved structural stability and binding forces due to the high-entropy effect, making them suitable for high-performance microwave devices.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateDec 11, 2024

Plasma bubbles in the skies: Hong Kong leads research on aviation safety threats

A study from Hong Kong Polytechnic University reveals the impact of EPBs on satellite navigation systems, providing a novel three-dimensional model to predict disruptions. The findings confirm that GBAS can maintain its integrity even under EPB-induced disruptions, ensuring continued safety and reliability.

Next-generation SERD protects against progression in some patients with advanced breast cancer resistant to standard hormone therapy

The EMBER-3 clinical trial showed that imlunestrant improved progression-free survival in patients with ER-positive, HER2-negative advanced breast cancer, particularly those with ESR1 mutations. The combination of imlunestrant and abemaciclib also demonstrated a significant reduction in risk of progression or death.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 11, 2024

Study finds new blood test predicts prognosis for advanced prostate cancer patients

A new DNA sequencing test called AR-ctDETECT has been found to distinguish between patients with poor and favorable prognoses in advanced prostate cancer. The test identified circulating tumor DNA in 59% of patients and showed that detectable ctDNA was associated with worse overall survival.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 11, 2024

PARP inhibition shows long-term survival benefits for patients with high-risk, BRCA-positive breast cancer in OlympiA trial

The OlympiA trial found that olaparib significantly improves survival outcomes in patients with high-risk, BRCA-positive breast cancer. After a median follow-up of 6.1 years, patients treated with olaparib showed better rates of invasive and distant disease-free survival compared to those who received placebo.

Smoking tobacco from childhood can cause premature heart damage

A study published in JACC found that children who started tobacco smoking at age 10 were significantly more likely to experience premature cardiac injury and increase their risk of cardiovascular mortality. Researchers also discovered that continued smoking from childhood can cause lasting damage to heart muscle and function.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 11, 2024

Hiring people with disabilities positively influences hotel guest perceptions, finds study

A new study from the University of Surrey found that employing people with disabilities in hotels boosts customer intentions to recommend and revisit hotels. Guests perceive hotels that employ PWD as more socially responsible, leading to increased positive word-of-mouth communication and repurchase intention.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2024

Study finds tonsil removal not linked to undesirable weight gain, contrary to popular belief

Researchers found no correlation between adenotonsillectomies and undesirable weight gain in children with mild sleep-disordered breathing. The study used data from a clinical trial involving 458 children and showed that adenotonsillectomy improved symptoms, blood pressure, and quality of life but not primary neurodevelopmental outcomes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 11, 2024

A new galaxy, much like our own

Astronomers from Wellesley College have discovered a newly forming galaxy that resembles a young Milky Way, with 10 distinct star clusters forming at different times. The galaxy, dubbed the 'Firefly Sparkle', has a mass similar to the Milky Way's when it was in its early stages of development.

SourceWellesley College·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2024

Top five rising star Texas researchers named in 2025 Edith and Peter O’Donnell Awards by TAMEST

Five Texas researchers have been honored with the 2025 Edith and Peter O'Donnell Awards for their innovative breakthroughs in small cell lung cancer, lithium-ion battery technology, and galaxy discovery. Lauren Averett Byers is being recognized for her work on novel therapeutic strategies for SCLC, while Caitlin M. Casey is exploring p...

SFU study urges Canada to build solar power mega-projects

A new report from Simon Fraser University recommends building mass utility-scale solar mega-projects to diversify Canada's energy mix and reduce reliance on hydroelectric power. The study suggests that prioritizing rapid deployment of utility-scale projects in optimal sunlight locations can have a transformative effect on the electrici...

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalSolar Compass·DateDec 11, 2024

New study highlights efficiency in detecting infectious diseases

Researchers developed an optimized approach to pooled testing, reducing testing costs and time while maintaining accuracy. The study provides a new software package to aid health departments in implementing these protocols, enabling efficient detection and monitoring of infectious diseases.

SourceUniversity of Louisiana at Lafayette·JournalJournal of Agricultural Biological and Environmental Statistics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 11, 2024

Biological diversity is not just the result of genes

Researchers from UNIGE found that mechanical forces, linked to tissue growth, drive the emergence of diverse biological structures. They demonstrated this using computer modeling and microscopy, revealing how variations in skin growth rates and stiffness generate distinct scale forms among different crocodilian species.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·TypeNews article·DateDec 11, 2024

Russian gas: What Austria and Europe have learned from their dependence

A study by the Complexity Science Hub shows that coordinated responses, including gas storage and alternative supply routes, can reduce potential economic impact. Austria's well-filled storage facilities and alternative supply routes have helped compensate for Gazprom's current gas supply freeze.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalJournal of Economic Behavior & Organization·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 11, 2024

Mid-Pliocene informs future seasonal march of the East Asian summer monsoon

A recent study suggests that the mid-Pliocene warm period may provide insights into the future behavior of the East Asian summer monsoon. The research reveals that the seasonal march of the EASM was about 10 days earlier in the mid-Pliocene, driven by extratropical vegetation greening and tropical shelf exposure.

Intraarterial radionuclide therapy safe and effective for advanced meningioma patients

Researchers found that intraarterial peptide receptor radionuclide therapy is safe and effective for patients with advanced meningioma, offering improved radiologic and clinical disease control compared to intravenous PRRT. The treatment was well-tolerated, with no additional toxicity, and showed promising results in disease control.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateDec 11, 2024

Loneliness and isolation: Back to pre-pandemic levels, but still high, for older adults

A new national study reveals that loneliness and social isolation have returned to pre-pandemic rates for older Americans, affecting 33% of adults aged 50-80. Those with poor physical or mental health face even higher rates, highlighting the need for clinicians to screen patients for these issues and connect them with community resources.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA·TypeSurvey·DateDec 11, 2024

Intelligence requires the whole brain

Researchers used brain connectivity data to predict individual intelligence scores, finding that global brain connections were most important for performance. The results suggest a more complex understanding of intelligence and challenge existing theories, which often focus on specific brain regions.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 11, 2024