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Science News for December 2, 2024


Cooperative motion by atoms protects glass from fracturing

A new discovery by researchers at Tohoku University reveals that the movement of atoms and molecules within glass can relax internal stress, making the material more resistant to fractures. The breakthrough has wide-ranging implications for industries such as consumer electronics, construction, and automotive manufacturing.

SourceTohoku University·JournalActa Materialia·DateDec 2, 2024

Monell Chemical Senses Center and A*STAR Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation sign agreement to collaborate in sensory science research and education

The collaboration aims to explore unique sensory differences between Asian and Western populations, informing consumer preferences and product development. The partnership will develop sensory testing protocols specific to Asians, incorporating traditional Eastern culinary practices with advanced methodologies.

Animal products improve child nutrition in Africa

A recent study by the University of Bonn and CABI Centre in Kenya found that milk, eggs, and fish consumption has a positive effect on childhood development in Africa. The study covered over 32,000 child observations across five African countries and showed that animal products significantly reduce the risk of stunting.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2024

Development of an RNA virus vector for non-transgenic genome editing in tobacco and generation of Berberine Bridge Enzyme-Like mutants with reduced nicotine content

Researchers developed a non-transgenic genome editing approach in tobacco using an RNA virus vector, resulting in heritable edits and mutant lines with reduced nicotine content. The approach allowed for the simultaneous targeting of multiple genes involved in pyridine alkaloid biosynthesis.

Deciphering city skies: AI unveils GNSS error identification

Researchers introduced an innovative AI-powered solution to identify and differentiate Non-Line-of-Sight errors in urban Global Navigation Satellite Systems. The Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) model achieved impressive 92% accuracy, significantly improving positioning accuracy in densely populated cities.

Feeding grazing cattle seaweed cuts methane emissions by almost 40%

Researchers at the University of California, Davis found that feeding grazing beef cattle a seaweed supplement reduced their methane emissions by nearly 40% without affecting health or weight. The study provides a promising approach to make cattle farming more sustainable and play a role in fighting climate change.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2024

Study finds adolescent suicidal behavior is significantly associated with externalizing behaviors and violence exposure

A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found a significant association between adolescent suicidal behavior and externalizing behaviors, as well as violence exposure. The study assessed the impact of state-level access to firearms on suicide rates among U.S. high school students.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 2, 2024

Using race and ethnicity to estimate disease risk improves prediction accuracy but may yield limited clinical net benefit

A cross-sectional study found that including race in disease risk models improves prediction accuracy, but the clinical net benefit is smaller than expected. The researchers provide a widely adaptable framework for deciding whether to include or exclude race from disease risk predictions.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateDec 2, 2024

Covid-19 reduced sex offender behaviour – new study

A new study by the University of Birmingham found that Covid-19 public health measures led to a significant decrease in stranger sex offenses, particularly those involving night-time economy and outdoor settings. The research also showed a reduction in offences taking place at home and internet-facilitated crimes during lockdowns.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPsychology of Violence·DateDec 2, 2024

Discovery of daphnane diterpenoids in daphne pontica

Researchers identified 33 daphnane diterpenoids in Daphne pontica, including newly discovered compounds, using UHPLC-Q-Exactive-Orbitrap MS. These compounds exhibit potent biological activities, suggesting the plant as a potential novel resource for drug discovery.

SourceToho University·JournalPhytochemical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2024

Landmark World Drought Atlas reveals systemic nature of hazard risks, underlines need for national plans, international cooperation

The World Drought Atlas depicts the systemic nature of drought risks, highlighting their interconnectedness across sectors. It underscores the need for national plans and international cooperation to build resilience against harsher droughts, which are expected to affect 3 in 4 people globally by 2050.

Ketone bodies: more than energy, they are powerful signaling metabolites that clean up damaged proteins

Researchers at the Buck Institute found that ketone bodies interact directly with misfolded proteins, altering their solubility and structure to be cleared through autophagy. This discovery suggests a new form of metabolic regulation of protein quality control in the brain, with potential therapeutic applications.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalCell Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2024

Insect fossil find ‘extremely rare’

A new study reveals rare whitefly insect fossils found in Miocene age crater lake sediments at Hindon Maar, near Dunedin. The fossils, preserved in the position they lived and died, provide evidence of the ecological component of ancient forests on the South Island.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalPalaeobiodiversity and Palaeoenvironments·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 2024

A breakthrough in battery capacity degradation analysis and knee point prediction

Researchers developed a novel method to analyze capacity degradation characteristics and predict the knee point of lithium-ion batteries, enabling effective predictive maintenance and enhancing safety. The study uses neural networks to analyze battery life, which is affected by multiple coupling aging mechanisms.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2024

European Society of Endocrinology publishes updated ‘ESE Curriculum and Training Recommendation in Endocrinology’

The European Society of Endocrinology (ESE) has published an updated curriculum for endocrinology training, aiming to harmonize training standards across Europe. The new curriculum emphasizes lifelong learning and professional skills, such as communication and leadership, to foster greater collaboration and knowledge exchange.

SourceEuropean Society of Endocrinology·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 2, 2024

Dynamics of structural transformation for liquid crystalline blue phases

Researchers have uncovered key insights about how liquid crystals transform between different phases using direct simulation and machine learning. This study provides a clearer understanding of the microscopic-level changes in these materials, which could lead to new possibilities for advanced materials development.

SourceKyushu University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2024

Revisiting vitamin D guidelines

The Endocrine Society's 2024 guidelines for Vitamin D testing and supplementation have been criticized for being too restrictive, with limited benefits for healthy individuals. The new guidelines recommend limiting supplementation to specific risk groups and advise against routine 25-hydroxyvitamin D testing in healthy individuals.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalEndocrine Practice·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 2, 2024

New study unveils the human and scientific dimensions of IPCC sea level rise projections

Researchers from Indiana University and Princeton University provide an unprecedented look at the collaborative process that determines IPCC's sea level rise projections. The study highlights challenges in reconciling conflicting methodologies while maintaining scientific integrity.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 2024

Evidence of primordial black holes may be hiding in planets, or even everyday objects here on Earth

Researchers propose that small black holes born in the early universe could have left behind hollow planetoids and microscopic tunnels, potentially detectable with telescopes or by monitoring old materials. The study suggests a low probability of primordial black hole passage but emphasizes the potential for discovery.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPhysics of the Dark Universe·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2024

Deep-sea marvels: How anglerfish defy evolutionary expectations

A groundbreaking study reveals how anglerfish evolved extraordinary traits, including bioluminescent lures and large oral gapes, to exploit scarce resources in the bathypelagic zone. Despite environmental challenges, anglerfish achieved high levels of phenotypic disparity, suggesting a capacity for adaptive radiation.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 2, 2024

Black students are punished more often, ‘no matter how you slice it’

A recent study found that Black students are 3.6 times more likely to be suspended out of school than their white peers, with even greater disparities in alternative schools. The researchers also discovered that wealthier schools with fewer free lunch recipients had the most disparate experiences.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalAmerican Educational Research Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2024

Transformation of chemical ordering and configuration entropy in quaternary CrxTi0.75Mo0.75V1.5−xAlC2 MAXs system

Researchers have discovered a series of CrxTi0.75Mo0.75V1.5−xAlC2 MAXs that exhibit unprecedented structure transitions and increased configurational entropy. The new materials show improved mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties, including high Vickers hardness and low thermal conductivity.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateDec 2, 2024

New study details why aging cells struggle to heal

A new study published in Nature Aging details the changes in muscle regeneration over time, finding that immune cells exhibit differences in abundance and reaction time between age groups. The research also identifies altered stem cell states, leading to discoordination in the process of muscle repair in older mice.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Aging·DateDec 2, 2024

Smallest walking robot makes microscale measurements

The team's achievement marks a significant advance in robotics, allowing for maneuverable robots that can perform up-close imaging and measure forces at the scale of some body's smallest structures. The new diffractive robots are tiny, measuring 5 microns to 2 microns, and can be controlled by magnetic fields to move independently.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateDec 2, 2024

UBCO researchers engineer DNA to mimic biological catch bonds

Researchers have developed an artificial adhesion system that closely mimics natural biological interactions, enabling precise control over its strength under varying forces. The innovative 'fish-hook' bond has vast potential in materials science and medicine, inspiring responsive materials and force-sensitive drug delivery systems.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2024

Scientists predict bright future for ash waste

A study published in Separation and Purification Technology suggests that fly ash can be repurposed for water treatment applications, offering a sustainable solution to environmental concerns. The authors review the literature on fly ash and identify its potential as a low-cost, lightweight material for crafting ceramic membranes.

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·JournalSeparation and Purification Technology·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 2, 2024

Turkey vultures indicate rodenticide prevalence near Los Angeles, California, despite state-wide bans

A study published in the Journal of Raptor Research found that turkey vultures in southern California are still exposed to anticoagulant rodenticides, even with recent bans in place. The researchers recommend continued monitoring and adherence to legislation regarding rodenticide use.

SourceRaptor Research Foundation·JournalJournal of Raptor Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2024

Evaluation of the phytochemical and medicinal value of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), by conversion into powders and extracts to develop a nutritional bakery product

The study found that lemongrass powder significantly increased the fiber and mineral content of wheat flour-based biscuits. The powder's phytochemical extracts also boosted the biscuits' antioxidant activity. Optimal levels of lemongrass powder were determined to be 2.5% for taste, flavor, and overall acceptability.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalFuture Integrative Medicine·DateDec 2, 2024

Pioneering digital twin model elevates lithium-ion battery performance and safety

A new digital twin model for lithium-ion batteries has been developed, offering enhanced simulation accuracy and real-time monitoring capabilities. The model demonstrates exceptional performance in simulating terminal voltage and shell temperature, with minimal mean absolute errors.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2024

To build better fiber optic cables, ask a clam

Researchers discovered that heart cockle shells have translucent areas with hair-thin strands that deliver specific wavelengths of light into the bivalves' tissues. This natural system filters out bad wavelengths and channels in optimal wavelengths for photosynthesis, benefiting the clams' symbiotic algae.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 2, 2024

Call for papers

This special issue aims to present the latest advancements in 3D reconstruction and generation technologies, focusing on virtual/augmented reality, gaming, film production, and more. The topics cover key techniques for fostering breakthroughs and addressing critical problems within this domain.

Synergistic damage behavior of He ion irradiation and molten salt corrosion in SiC at 750 °C

Researchers have identified the synergistic effect of He ion irradiation and molten salt corrosion on silicon carbide (SiC) materials, revealing a key mechanism for the corrosion process. The study provides essential data for safe use of SiC in MSR reactors and offers fundamental insights for developing SiC fiber-reinforced composites.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateDec 2, 2024

Pregnancy enhances natural immunity to block severe flu

Researchers at McGill University have discovered that pregnancy enhances the body's natural immunity to block severe flu infection. By activating a powerful molecule in the nasal cavity, pregnant women may benefit from stronger antiviral defenses against the Influenza A virus.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2024

Clay minerals: Researchers observe for the first time how sediment particles align during deposition

A research team from Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg observed how sediment particles align during deposition in real-time using state-of-the-art technology. They found that clay particles adopt a certain orientation very early on, contradicting a common hypothesis about the alignment of clay particles.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 2024

Unveiling a century of stress and deformation: Insights from Kīlauea Volcano’s 1975 earthquake

The study discovered significant alterations in the region's state of stress and deformation following the 1975 Kalapana earthquake. The researchers found that Kīlauea's south flank experienced greater displacement prior to the earthquake, pointing to changes in mechanical properties influencing seismic activity.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Solid Earth·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 2, 2024

Newer antiseizure drugs safe for pregnancy, Stanford Medicine-led study shows

A large multisite study found that two common antiseizure medications, lamotrigine and levetiracetam, are safe to use during pregnancy, with no statistically significant differences in cognitive and psychosocial outcomes at age 6. The study confirms these drugs offer a safe alternative to older antiseizure medications like valproate.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJAMA Neurology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 2024

The high-resolution occultation data from China’s Tianwen-1 probe is first used to study internal gravity waves in the Martian atmosphere

Researchers used Tianwen-1's occultation data to study internal gravity waves in the Martian atmosphere, finding they have small-scale vertical wavelengths and propagate almost vertically. The study provides critical insights into atmospheric dynamics on Mars, guiding global models and advancing understanding of planetary environments.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalEarth and Planetary Physics·DateDec 2, 2024

Study finds adolescent suicidal behavior is significantly associated with externalizing behaviors and violence exposure

A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine finds significant associations between suicidal behavior and externalizing behaviors, as well as violence exposure among US high school students. The study's authors suggest that stronger firearm protections are needed to protect youth health.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2024

In “world’s bonobo stronghold” rangers and pristine forest sustain a stable population

Scientists conducted a 20-year study in Salonga National Park to estimate the bonobo population, finding 8,000-18,000 adult bonobos. The research highlights the effectiveness of park rangers and specific factors such as primary forest cover and cultural practices in conserving the endangered species.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Animal Behavior·JournalInternational Journal of Primatology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 2024

Reveals the regional differences in Earth upper atmosphere response to the May 2024 superstorm

Researchers analyzed ground-based and satellite observations to study the impact of thermospheric composition, density, temperature, and dynamic processes on ionospheric behavior during the superstorm. Markedly different features occurred in the ionosphere between northern and southern hemispheres across American and Asian sectors.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalEarth and Planetary Physics·DateDec 2, 2024

A new biomarker helps detect kidney fibrosis in transplant patients without invasive procedures

Researchers have identified a simpler and more accessible alternative to diagnosing kidney fibrosis in transplant patients: measuring vitronectin levels in urine. The study found that vitronectin levels were significantly higher in patients with fibrosis, and combining this measurement with traditional urine tests improved accuracy.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalJournal of Translational Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 2024

All people are unique – also in the gut

A new study found that changes in the gut environment influence the composition and activity of gut bacteria. The study involved swallowing a capsule with pH sensors through breakfast, revealing unique gut environments and travel times among individuals. This may help explain individual differences in digestion, nutrient uptake, and bo...

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 2, 2024

Illinois researchers examine teens’ use of generative AI, safety concerns

Researchers found that teenagers use generative artificial intelligence for emotional support, social interactions, and academic purposes. However, they also reported significant misconceptions about generative AI among parents and children. Parents had little to no understanding of their children's use of GAI, and they viewed AI as a ...