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Science News for December 12, 2024


Acoustic battles for the harem: How the calls of Siberian wapiti reveal their status and individuality

Researchers found that rutting calls of Siberian wapiti stags reflect their harem-holding status and individual characteristics. The study suggests that these acoustic displays enable females to assess a male's quality from a distance, while also signaling to rivals whether it's worth challenging him.

Revolutionizing bone regeneration: functionalized flat silkworm cocoon scaffolds with magnesium ions

Researchers have developed a novel strategy for bone defect repair using flat silkworm cocoon fiber scaffolds functionalized with magnesium ions. These innovative materials exhibit enhanced biological performance and simplify scaffold preparation, paving the way for cost-effective and efficient bone regenerative therapies.

SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·DateDec 12, 2024

Illinois researchers develop model to evaluate food safety control strategies for produce industry

A new study from the University of Illinois aims to determine the most effective risk management strategies for the produce supply chain. The researchers found that improved process controls, such as washing, provided a greater reduction in overall risk than additional product testing.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Food Protection·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 12, 2024

Solar-powered plasma technology offers a sustainable solution for seed germination challenges

Researchers developed a solar-powered plasma water generator to enhance seed germination. The system produced plasma-activated water that modified the chemical environment for seed development, leading to a 135% increase in germination rates for spinach seeds stored for 23 years.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2024

Ferroptosis and intrinsic drug-induced liver injury by acetaminophen and other drugs: a critical evaluation and historical perspective

The discovery of ferroptosis has renewed interest in non-apoptotic cell death mechanisms. While initially studied in cancer, ferroptosis is increasingly implicated in various diseases, including liver injury. However, the liver's robust antioxidant defenses question its widespread applicability.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateDec 12, 2024

Do animals get jealous like people? Researchers say it’s complicated.

A new UC Berkeley study analyzed over 60,000 animal observations and found no conclusive evidence of inequity aversion in non-human species. However, the researchers suggest that some animals may exhibit disappointment or social protest when their expectations are not met.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 2024

Long-term exposure to air pollution linked to blood clots in veins that bring blood to the heart

A large US study found a strong association between long-term air pollution exposure and an increased risk of blood clots in deep veins, also known as venous thromboembolism. Participants with higher exposure to particulate matter, oxides of nitrogen, and nitrogen dioxide had a significantly increased risk of developing these conditions.

Artificial intelligence improves mammography-based risk prediction

Artificial intelligence is enhancing breast cancer risk prediction through mammographic analysis, uncovering key features that predict breast cancer risk. These AI-generated features may inform personalized screening strategies, such as more frequent or less frequent screenings for women at high or low risk of breast cancer.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Cancer·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 12, 2024

Your immune cells are what they eat

Researchers at Salk Institute establish a novel framework for the relationship between nutrition and cell identity. They found that a nutritional switch from acetate to citrate plays a key role in determining T cell fates, shifting them from active effector cells to exhausted cells.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateDec 12, 2024

Study shows American College of Lifestyle Medicine education initiative improves clinicians’ ability to make lifestyle and dietary interventions

The complimentary CME/CE course, offered in support of the 2022 White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition and Health, has reported significant improvements in clinicians' knowledge, confidence, and practice of lifestyle medicine. Over 53,000 clinicians have registered for the course so far.

SourceAmerican College of Lifestyle Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Lifestyle Medicine·DateDec 12, 2024

Porous crystals detect nitric oxide

A copper-containing, electrically conducting, two-dimensional metal–organic framework has been developed for the highly selective detection of nitric oxide. The material detects NO at room temperature with high sensitivity and selectivity, making it suitable for air quality monitoring and medical applications.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2024

Enhancing transverse thermoelectric conversion performance in magnetic materials with tilted structural design

Researchers developed artificial materials with improved transverse magneto-thermoelectric conversion performance through structural design. The findings provide new guidelines for designing materials and new ways to utilize the anomalous Nernst effect for practical applications.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2024

Researchers reveal key factors behind Japan’s plastic waste removal rates in rivers

A nationwide analysis of Japan's plastic litter removal from rivers found that natural disasters and extreme weather events contribute to spikes in collected plastic waste. The study, led by Tokyo University of Science, also identified positive correlations between basin population, plastic litter recovery, and cleanup activities.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 2024

Older Australians turning to cannabis as cigarette prices rise

A study by Curtin University found that when cigarette prices increased, cannabis use among older Australians (aged over 50) rose, with 68,000 people expected to start using cannabis. Researchers used data from the Australian National Drug Strategy Household Survey and ran simulations to predict the impact of price increases.

SourceCurtin University·JournalJournal of Population Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 2024

Durham University scientists unlock secrets of the longest runout sediment flows on earth using seabed seismographs

Researchers successfully monitored turbidity currents in the Congo Canyon-Channel, recording massive flows that travelled over 1,000 kilometres at speeds of up to 7.6 metres per second. The study provided critical new data on the duration and behaviour of turbidity currents, challenging traditional models.

SourceDurham University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 12, 2024

Aldabra Atoll's remarkable shoreline resilience over 51 years

A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that Aldabra Atoll's shoreline has maintained its net shoreline and total land area over 51 years, with an average change rate of 25 cm per year. The lagoon shoreline underwent more rapid changes than the ocean shoreline, particularly in areas exposed to wind and waves.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2024

Examining gender inequality in academic publishing

A recent study from Syracuse University found a significant gender gap in management science journals, with only 24% of editors and authors being women. The researchers recommend increasing inclusion and recognizing invisible barriers to promote fair representation.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalThe Leadership Quarterly·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 2024

NUS Medicine's Vincenzo Sorrentino joins EMBO Global Investigator Network to advance healthy longevity research

Dr. Vincenzo Sorrentino's research targets the mitochondria-proteostasis axis to promote healthy longevity, addressing significant challenges in Singapore where life expectancy gap poses a threat. He joins a diverse group of researchers to tackle universal challenges and build towards a healthier future for Singapore.

Innovative biomimetic superhydrophobic coating combines repair and buffering properties for superior anti-erosion

Developed by a research team, the DEA coating boasts strong erosion–corrosion resistance thanks to its multi-layer gradient structure and amylose hydrogel layer. The coating can fully repair cracks up to 50 μm wide, significantly reducing erosion rates and offering enhanced protection for underwater pipeline systems.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalEngineering·DateDec 12, 2024

A dial for tuning the immune system: Discovery sheds light on why COVID makes some sicker than others

Researchers discovered a protein variant acting like a tuning dial to regulate interferon signaling, impacting immune function and disease susceptibility. The balance between this variant and the normal protein may vary from person to person, contributing to individual differences in immune responses.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2024

Combined screening can detect liver damage in diabetes patients

A new study published in Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that a combined screening approach can detect liver damage in people with type 2 diabetes. The method involves elastography, an ultrasound-based technique, which was found to be willing to be adopted by most patients. Early detection of liver fibrosis is crucial, as ...

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology·DateDec 12, 2024

Skin photobiological effects induced by blue light

A recent study explores blue light's effects on skin, including pigmentation, barrier damage, and photoaging. The research identifies key mechanisms and recommends a multifaceted approach to BL protection with physical sunscreens, bioprotective ingredients, antioxidants, and anti-photoaging components.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 12, 2024

How the dirt under our feet could affect human health

Researchers found that soil contains antibiotic resistance genes that can be transmitted to humans, making it a pressing public health threat. The study reveals how these genes spread through the environment and highlights the importance of understanding soil ecosystems to control antibiotic resistance.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 12, 2024

Breakthrough of the Year: A drug that prevents HIV infection, providing six months of protection per shot

Lenacapavir's remarkable efficacy has been demonstrated in clinical trials, achieving 100% protection in African adolescent girls and women and 99.9% in gender-diverse groups. The drug's capsid-targeting mechanism blocks key stages of viral replication, offering a potential game-changer in HIV prevention.

Cesarean sections during labor appear associated with recurrent preterm birth and mid-trimester loss in subsequent pregnancies, and cervical damage may be an underlying mechanism, suggest the authors of a new Perspective article

A new study suggests that cesarean sections performed during labor are associated with an increased risk of recurrent preterm birth and mid-trimester loss in subsequent pregnancies. Cervical damage may be the underlying mechanism for these findings, highlighting a growing clinical concern.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 12, 2024

Women born prematurely are at greater risk of committing suicide

A new Nordic study found that women born prematurely have a nearly 80% higher risk of committing suicide compared to those born at full term. However, premature-born men do not show the same elevated risk. The researchers analyzed birth data and causes of death for nearly 37,000 individuals in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalBMC Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 12, 2024

India could see more than 62.4 million cases of tuberculosis in the two decades to 2040, with scaling-up of existing treatment regimens potentially generating at least US$28 billion in GDP gains

A new study estimates that India will see over 62.4 million cases of tuberculosis in the next two decades, posing a significant burden on the country's health and economy. Scaling up existing treatment regimens could generate at least $28 billion in GDP gains, highlighting the need for increased investment in TB control measures.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 12, 2024

FSU researchers develop new methods to generate and improve magnetism of 2D materials

Researchers have developed a new method for producing one class of 2D material and supercharging its magnetic properties. By applying liquid phase exfoliation and chemical treatment, they were able to increase the material's coercivity by five-fold, making it more suitable for applications such as spin filtering, electromagnetic shield...

SourceFlorida State University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateDec 12, 2024

Policy Forum: Considering risks of “mirror life” before it is created

Researchers discuss lifeforms composed of mirror-image biological molecules, also known as 'mirror life', which could evade immune mechanisms and predators, posing significant risks. The authors call for careful consideration and preemption of risks before creation, noting that such organisms would likely cause lethal infection in huma...

Mapping carbon emissions: The role of territorial dynamics in China

Researchers have unveiled a spatial dimension-based analysis of China's CO2 emissions, revealing a stable correlation between emission patterns and designated roles of urbanization, food security, and ecological zones. This study supports the development of long-term prediction models for CO2 emissions from a spatial dimension.

SourceIGSNRR CAS·JournalJournal of Geographical Sciences·DateDec 12, 2024

Trends in school mental health and substance use education

Research from 2008-2020 shows an increase in emotional/mental health and suicide prevention in schools, but a decrease in substance use prevention, particularly among middle schools. This shift highlights the need for targeted teacher training and resource allocation to address emerging trends in school mental health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 12, 2024

Olive, grape, garlic, rosemary and saffron have properties against cardiovascular diseases

A review of the mechanisms of action and clinical evidence of bioactive compounds from Mediterranean diet constituents shows promise in treating atherosclerosis and reducing heart attack risk. The study identifies potential knowledge gaps and recommends designing preclinical and clinical studies to evaluate these natural extracts.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalFood Bioscience·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 12, 2024

Genomic analysis refines timing of Neandertal admixture – and its impact on modern humans

A genomic study spanning over 300 genomes reveals that modern humans acquired several Neanderthal genes advantageous for our lineage, including those in skin pigmentation, immune response, and metabolism. The study also found rapid natural selection of Neanderthal ancestry within 100 generations after gene flow.

Superflares once per century

A new study reveals that sun-like stars experience superflares approximately once per century, releasing massive amounts of energy in short periods. This finding suggests that the Sun's long-term behavior may be more frequent than previously thought, with implications for forecasting dangerous space weather.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Solar System Research·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateDec 12, 2024

UVA model advances rational design of more effective maternal vaccines for newborns

Researchers created an advanced computational model to optimize maternal vaccine design and protect high-risk populations. The model helps reveal which antibodies can pass through effectively and when, enabling the development of safer, more effective vaccines.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Immunology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 12, 2024

COMET trial finds quality of life similar among patients with low- risk DCIS whether they received active monitoring or surgery

Patients with low-risk ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) who underwent active monitoring reported comparable physical, emotional, and psychological outcomes to those who received upfront treatment. The study found no significant differences in health-related quality of life between the two groups over time.

Study sheds light on the origin of the genetic code

A recent study revises our understanding of the universal genetic code's evolution, suggesting that early life preferred smaller amino acids over larger ones. The researchers found that amino acids with aromatic ring structures were incorporated into the code later than previously thought, offering clues about other extinct genetic codes.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 2024

Spirals and waves

Researchers Navdeep Rana and Ramin Golestanian investigated non-reciprocal interaction and defect formation in active systems, finding well-ordered wave patterns emerge when non-reciprocity exceeds a certain level. This property opens avenues for applications of non-reciprocal active matter systems.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization·JournalNew Journal of Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 12, 2024

What brings richness to sparkling wines?

Researchers have discovered 11 probable kokumi compounds in sparkling wines, which may contribute to their rich, full-bodied taste. The study identified these compounds through a combination of computer simulations and wine tastings, paving the way for further investigation into the molecular basis of kokumi sensation in wines.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 12, 2024

El Niño exacerbates effects of drought on Amazon groundwater and increases fire risk, study finds

Researchers found a link between El Niño events and increased fire risk in the Amazon region, particularly where groundwater storage is compromised. The study highlights the critical role of groundwater in sustaining vegetation during droughts, emphasizing the need for prevention efforts during extreme climatic conditions.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateDec 12, 2024

Graz language database improves automatic speech recognition of Austrian German

Researchers at Graz University of Technology developed a new database to improve speech recognition of Austrian German using speech data from 38 speakers. They found that traditional HMM-based systems are more robust for short sentences and dialectal language, while transformer-based models excel with longer sentences and context.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalComputer Speech & Language·DateDec 12, 2024

“Us” vs. “them” biases plague AI, too

A new study finds that large language models are prone to social identity biases, favoring their perceived ingroup while expressing negativity toward outgroups. However, the researchers discovered that carefully selecting the training data can reduce these biases, suggesting promising directions for improving AI development and training.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 12, 2024

Paracetamol may not be as safe as perceived in older people, according to a new study

A new study by the University of Nottingham found repeated paracetamol doses in older adults (65+) can lead to increased risks of peptic ulcers, heart failure, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease. The study suggests paracetamol use should be carefully reconsidered for long-term conditions such as osteoarthritis.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalArthritis Care & Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 2024

Caregiving stress linked to high blood pressure in younger Black women

A new study finds that caregiving stress in younger Black women is associated with an increased risk of developing hypertension. The research team followed the health of more than 3,500 Black adults and found that those reporting moderate or high caregiving stress were more likely to develop hypertension.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalHypertension·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 2024

Planets form through domino effect

A recent study using radio astronomy observations has revealed that planets help form the next by concentrating dust grains into a narrow region at their orbits. This sequential formation process can explain how our Solar System formed, with each planet triggering the next like a line of falling dominos.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeObservational study·DateDec 12, 2024

UH researchers characterize keys to successful pregnancy in humpback whales

Humpback whales' reproductive success is linked to maternal characteristics and energy balance. Researchers found fetal growth rates increased with maternal length and energy demands peaked in the final third of pregnancy, coinciding with fasting and migration. This study highlights a vulnerable period for pregnant humpback whales and ...

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 12, 2024

Reiki therapy demonstrates significant symptom relief for cancer patients receiving infusion treatments

A study published in Journal of Pain and Symptom Management found that Reiki therapy resulted in clinically significant improvements in pain, fatigue, anxiety, nausea, and well-being among outpatients with cancer. The study involved 392 Reiki sessions for 268 unique patients, showing a mean improvement of 1.78 in pain and 2.09 in anxiety.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalJournal of Pain and Symptom Management·DateDec 12, 2024

Towards room-temperature superconductivity: Insights into optical properties of bi-based copper-oxide superconductors

A Japanese research team investigates the origin of Bi2212's strong optical anisotropy, finding that increasing lead content reduces incommensurate modulation, enabling accurate measurement of optical activity and circular dichroism. This study contributes to understanding high-temperature superconductivity mechanisms.

SourceWaseda University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2024

Unlocking the clock: The role of the circadian system in inflammatory bowel diseases

Research highlights the critical link between the body's circadian clock and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Disruptions in circadian rhythms exacerbate inflammation, suggesting that aligning treatment strategies with natural biological cycles could improve patient outcomes.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalTrends in Molecular Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 12, 2024

How cells repair DNA’s protective barrier: a pathway to address a rare genetic disorder characterized by rapid aging in children

A team of researchers has discovered how lamin A helps repair the protective barrier around a cell's DNA, providing insights into treating Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome. The study highlights lamin A's unique role in nuclear stability and its potential for addressing genetic disorders characterized by rapid aging.

Researchers demonstrate new technique for stealing AI models

A team of researchers has developed a novel technique to steal artificial intelligence (AI) models by monitoring electromagnetic signals. The method allows attackers to recreate the high-level features of an AI model with 99.91% accuracy, potentially undermining intellectual property rights and exposing sensitive data.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIACR Transactions on Cryptographic Hardware and Embedded Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2024

Researchers 3D print compact, low-cost vortex beam generators

A team of researchers has created a compact and low-cost device that generates twisting light beams with orbital angular momentum, enhancing the capacity and reliability of future wireless systems. The device achieves high out-of-band suppression, exceeding 30 dB, reducing interference and ensuring clean signal transmission.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateDec 12, 2024