Advance in pain relief research
Scientists identify hederagenin, a highly selective antagonist of NPFFR1, to block chronic pain. The discovery could facilitate the rational design of future therapeutics for pain management.
Science News Archive December 2024
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Bringing dark comets to light
A recent study by MSU researchers doubles the number of known dark comets and identifies two distinct types. Dark comets are near-Earth objects that may contain water, a potential source for delivering materials to Earth necessary for life. The discovery challenges current classification methods for asteroids and comets.
SwRI announces joint industry program aimed at advancing heavy-duty hydrogen refueling infrastructure
Southwest Research Institute has launched a joint industry project to develop technologies for hydrogen-powered heavy-duty refueling operations. The four-year program aims to strengthen existing refueling station equipment and procedures, exploring alternatives to address supply chain issues and technical challenges.
Oxygen is not the limit: Diversity and metabolic potential of globally distributed endosymbionts
Researchers found peculiar mitochondria-like symbionts in freshwater lakes, groundwater, and wastewater worldwide, revealing surprising metabolic capacities. They can respire oxygen in addition to nitrogen, impacting the nitrogen cycle and potentially producing greenhouse gases.
Developing wastewater treatment units that treat right where it's generated
A Korean research team developed an electrochemical device that can treat sewage and wastewater from pollution sites to the level of discharge. The device can rapidly decompose recalcitrant organic matter into inorganic substances, reducing total organic carbon by up to 93% in just 2 hours.
Study helps solve mystery between repeated head impacts in sports and location of brain degeneration in CTE
Researchers at Boston University Alzheimer's Disease and CTE Center found that cumulative repetitive head impacts drive specific patterns of brain degeneration in chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The study also identified tau protein accumulation as a key mechanism in neuronal loss and synaptic changes.
Researchers ‘see’ vulnerability to gaming addiction in the adolescent brain
A study of over 6,000 adolescents found that those with symptoms of gaming addiction showed lower brain activity in the decision-making and reward processing region. This suggests a link between reduced sensitivity to rewards and problematic gaming behaviors.
What motivates Americans to eat less red meat?
A new study reveals that US adults who choose not to eat red meat are more concerned with environmental impacts than health risks. The survey of over 7,500 adults found that demographics such as age, education level, and income also played a role in red meat consumption.
Investigating the Genetic and Biological Mechanisms That Predispose to Early-Onset Psychotic Illnesses - A Free Webinar from the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation
A free webinar will explore the genetic and biological mechanisms that predispose to early-onset psychotic illnesses. Dr. Catherine Astrid Brownstein will discuss her research on using real-world data for genetic discovery in partnership with Inspire.com.
Online training could help older adults communicate in noisy environments
Research by UCL experts found that online training can improve speech intelligibility for both older and younger adults, with a 30% improvement in understanding sentences spoken by new voices. The study suggests that practicing listening to regularly encountered voices could enhance everyday communication.
Pulte Institute joins global consortium using research to end poverty
A $75 million consortium, including the Pulte Institute, aims to inform USAID's activities with detailed evidence on poverty alleviation programs. The Promoting Impact and Learning with Cost-Effectiveness Evidence (PILCEE) partnership will guide USAID's work by evaluating program impact and synthesizing findings.
Study maps risk and protective factors associated with suicidal behavior
A study of 2,788 participants with impulse control disorder found that people with ICD are more likely to exhibit both overt and covert suicidal behavior. The study identified shared and specific risk factors for each type of behavior, including depressive symptoms and low self-direction.
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia researchers find rotavirus vaccine is safe for use in NICU babies
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that the rotavirus vaccine is safe for use in NICU babies, with a low risk of transmission and no clinical consequences. The study suggests that giving the vaccine to eligible infants during their hospitalization provides immune benefits that outweigh any risks.
Jabuticaba peel improves nutritional characteristics of bread
The addition of jabuticaba peel flour increased the bread's fiber content by over 50% and raised its antioxidant capacity by 1.35-3.53 times, leading to improved blood sugar control and insulin response. The study found that satiety increased after consuming the bread with jabuticaba peel flour, suggesting a lower glycemic index.
Breakthrough AI model can translate the language of plant life
A pioneering AI model has been developed to understand the genetic 'language' of plants, allowing for precise predictions about RNA functions and identification of functional patterns. This breakthrough has significant implications for crop improvement and the next generation of AI-based gene design.
New research reveals insights on climate-inspired urban design projects
A pair of studies analyze specific high-profile projects and a broader range of proposals, providing valuable frameworks for evaluating their effectiveness. The studies identify six primary types of climatopias, with the Reduce and Re-Use categories exhibiting the most profound engagement with sociopolitical transformation.
Falsifying anthropics
A new paper in JCAP proposes a way to test the anthropic principle, which suggests the universe is fine-tuned for life. The proposal involves confirming three conditions: cosmic inflation, axion existence, and dark matter not being made of axions.
Lower-quality public housing is at high risk of flood damage
A new study reveals that lower-quality public housing units are disproportionately located in areas with high flood risk, putting residents at risk of catastrophic damage. The research also highlights the disproportionate impact on people of color and those with limited ability to recover from flooding.
Eyes on the brain at the University of Houston
Researchers found that autistic children prioritize faces in different ways, particularly when first seeing them, using an exploratory pattern characterized by larger face regions of interest. This may be associated with autism-related symptomology and decreased visual sensitivity to face information.
Researchers use a powerful imaging technique to illuminate the colorful plumage of birds
A new study uses hyperspectral imaging to quantify the colorful plumage of birds-of-paradise, a rare hybrid species. The research reveals that the hybrid's appearance is a precise blend of colors from its parent species, with detailed ultraviolet images capturing patches invisible to humans.
USC Stem Cell study breaks the silence on how fish and lizards regenerate hearing
A USC Stem Cell study has identified key gene regulators that enable some deafened animals, including fish and lizards, to naturally regenerate their hearing. The researchers found a class of DNA control elements known as 'enhancers' that amplify the production of a protein called ATOH1, which induces sensory cells in the inner ear.
Mapping molecular arrangements to pave the way for better catalytic systems
A team led by Eric Stach at Penn Engineering has developed a new approach to visualize and understand molecular catalysts on semiconductor surfaces. By combining atomic-resolution imaging with machine learning analysis, they created detailed maps of the distribution and behavior of these microscopic structures.
Reinventing global cooperation through hackathons
A recent study by the University of Geneva and the United Nations found that 30% of hackathons contribute significantly to the SDGs, particularly climate change. These events attract new participants and generate long-term collective engagement, making them a promising tool for global cooperation.
Revealed: how COVID-19 variants hijack human cells
Researchers at University of Helsinki and colleagues have mapped the 'hijackome', detailing how SARS-CoV-2 variants exploit specific cellular pathways to spread and evade immune defenses.
Therapeutic potential of a novel mixture of mRNA in nanoparticles overcomes tumor progression
A novel mixture of mRNA in nanoparticles has been developed to protect therapeutic mRNA against degradation, improving its overall efficacy. The therapy stimulates the immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cells while limiting detrimental side effects, also leading to immunological memory that protects against tumor rechallenge.
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and partners discover new ocean predator in the Atacama Trench
Researchers from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and partners uncover a fast-swimming predatory amphipod species at depths of up to 8,000 meters. The newly discovered species highlights the importance of continued deep-ocean exploration and biodiversity discoveries in the Atacama Trench.
Loneliness and social isolation among US older adults
A recent study found that US older adults aged 50-80 commonly experience loneliness and social isolation, with high rates reported across various sociodemographic groups. These findings highlight the significant impact of social isolation on physical and mental health in this age group.
Therapeutic potential of a novel mixture of mRNA in nanoparticles overcomes tumor progression
Researchers developed an immunotherapeutic platform using lipid-based nanoparticles to deliver therapeutic mRNAs, showing improved efficacy and reduced toxicity. The therapy stimulates the immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cells, while preserving beneficial immune responses.
Unlocking worm strategies: A path to innovative vaccines and therapies
Researchers have identified a molecular strategy employed by worm parasites to evade host immune defenses, offering promising solutions for addressing major infectious diseases, allergies, and asthma. By analyzing the unique immune-regulatory properties of helminths, scientists pinpointed key features essential to their activity.
Giving a gift? Better late than never, study finds
Researchers found that gift recipients are more forgiving of late gifts than givers assume they will be. Gift givers who imagined receiving a late gift thought it would have less harm on their relationship than those giving the late gift.
Pediatric investigation study reveals potential of advanced diagnostic model for autism screening
Researchers developed an interactive screening model called RITA-T, which improved early identification of high-risk toddlers from underserved areas. The study found that toddlers screened via RITA-T had shorter wait times and more accessible diagnostic services compared to those not using the model.
AML, sickle cell disease research among highlights of UC ASH abstracts
Researchers have identified a promising new drug, lomonitinib, targeting treatment-resistant acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with FLT-3 mutation. Additionally, they developed a novel compound to target MALT1 protein in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), aiming to provide better control of the disease.
Researchers design new materials for advanced chip manufacturing
The researchers aim to facilitate patterning in the extreme ultraviolet range using indium-based materials, enabling smaller and more precise features on chips. This could lead to better performance and energy efficiency in microchips.
Survey shows many travelers say they have had difficulty finding healthy food options in nation’s busiest airports
A survey of over 2,200 people found that more than half have struggled to find healthy food in airports, with frequent travelers eager for plant-based options. Experts recommend customizable meals, grab-and-go options, and research before trips to make airport dining easier.
Political agendas and the study of Chinese astronomy in eighteenth-century Britain
A new paper examines how European scholars like Antoine Gaubil and George Costard used Chinese astronomy to promote their respective political agendas. Despite scientific inquiry, both men were driven by local concerns, with Costard seeking to discredit China's antiquity as a way to promote British values.
Nature inspires self-assembling helical polymer
Scientists at Hiroshima University have created a controlled helix using supramolecular polymerization, which can be used to control the behavior of materials in various scenarios. The new polymer has the potential to improve applications such as memory, sensing devices, and catalysis by controlling its handedness.
Raising the standard in therapy with psychedelics
A systematic review of 45 studies found inconsistent descriptions of psychotherapy sessions, making it difficult to replicate studies and compromise patient well-being. Researchers call for improved reporting standards to enhance the replicability, safety, and potential effectiveness of these therapies.
Unlocking RNA’s benefits to combat complex diseases
Researchers at the University of Ottawa have developed a nanoparticle strategy to deliver both mRNA and siRNA, enhancing and interfering with multiple gene and protein expressions. This approach holds significant promise for treating major diseases like cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
Insect genome offers insights into rare biological conditions, agricultural biosecurity
Low-cost sequencing technology has opened a flood of mitochondrial DNA data on lice and other insects, bolstering studies on insect species identification and developing insecticides. This genetic data also offers insights into the impact of evolution on neurodegenerative diseases and potential pest control methods.
UVM research team unveils breakthrough mechanism in brain blood flow regulation
The study reveals that electrical signals enhance calcium entry into cells, amplifying localized signals and extending their influence to neighboring cells through E-Ca coupling. This creates a synchronized system that adjusts blood flow both locally and across wider distances.
Advances in systemic mastocytosis: Early signs of efficacy for a novel drug and a new predictive tool to guide patient care
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute researchers present promising results from two studies on systemic mastocytosis: a novel drug, bezuclastinib, shows early efficacy in treating advanced SM, while a new predictive tool distinguishes between life-threatening and less aggressive forms of the disease with high accuracy
How to make robots more lifelike
Researchers created a measurement scale to assess robot human likeness, revealing four key qualities: appearance, emotional capacity, social intelligence, and self-understanding. To seem lifelike, robots must exhibit these traits, with self-understanding being the most challenging aspect to simulate.
Could US-style summer holiday programs boost Aussie kids’ health?
Summer holiday programs in Australia have been found to improve children's physical activity, fitness, and mental health, particularly among disadvantaged kids. These programs, delivered in semi-structured environments like school, help offset hours spent on screens and promote healthier behaviors.
New study reveals quasiparticle loss in extreme quantum materials
Researchers at Rice University have uncovered a phenomenon where quasiparticles lose their identity in extreme quantum materials, leading to unique properties. This discovery has broader implications for understanding transitions in other correlated materials and creating advanced superconductors.
University of Cincinnati College of Medicine receives grant to launch styrofoam recycling project
The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine has launched a styrofoam recycling project to divert over 900 pounds of EPS waste from landfills each month. The program aims to reuse existing styrofoam materials, reducing the need for styrene and minimizing environmental impact.
Sugary drinks significantly raise cardiovascular disease risk, but occasional sweet treats don’t, scientists find
A large-scale Swedish study found that drinking sweetened beverages significantly increases cardiovascular disease risk, while limited consumption of treats doesn't. The study suggests considering the source and context of sugar intake for better cardiovascular health outcomes.
Employee visits to adult or gambling sites doubles risk of infection by malware
A recent study by the Society for Risk Analysis found that employees who visit adult or gambling sites are more likely to encounter seven types of malware, including coinminers and ransomware. Visiting these types of websites increases the risk of infection by two-fold.
New data tool maps air pollution from petrochemical facilities in Gulf Coast and Ohio River Valley
A new analysis from PSE Healthy Energy reveals that fine particulate matter emissions from petrochemical facilities contribute to nearly 1,500 premature deaths annually, with estimated economic impacts of $17 billion. The study found that industry growth led to a 12% increase in greenhouse gas emissions between 2012 and 2021.
Brain tumor organoids accurately model patient response to CAR T cell therapy
Researchers used lab-grown organoids from glioblastoma tumors to model patient response to CAR T cell therapy. The organoids accurately reflected the treatment's effect on actual tumors, providing a promising tool for personalized medicine.
Blood removal before major liver surgery cuts transfusions in half
A large clinical trial found that removing 10% of a patient's blood before major liver surgery reduces the need for transfusions by half. This practice, known as hypovolemic phlebotomy, lowers blood pressure in the liver and is safe, simple, and inexpensive.
Kessler Foundation researchers advance traumatic brain injury rehabilitation with cognitive integrated motor training and neuromodulation enhanced robotic balance therapy
Researchers develop personalized cognitive integrated sensorimotor virtual reality training to improve gait and balance in individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI). A separate study uses robotic balance training combined with non-invasive brain stimulation to enhance postural control and motor recovery in TBI.
Traces of 10,000-year-old ancient rice beer discovered in Neolithic site in Eastern China
Researchers found evidence of ancient rice beer production at the Shangshan site, revealing a significant presence of domesticated rice phytoliths and fungal elements. The study provides new insights into the origins of alcoholic beverage brewing in East Asia.
New method enables protein analysis accounting for population diversity
Researchers developed a new method to build protein sequences from large genetic panels, capturing diversity among cohort participants. This approach can refine medical research to individual profiles and address the challenge of integrating diversity in current data models.
Not so simple machines: Cracking the code for materials that can learn
Physicists at the University of Michigan have developed an algorithm that enables materials to learn and adapt, mimicking brain-like behaviors. This breakthrough has implications for the development of advanced materials with self-tuning properties.
KIT Robotics researcher receives ERC Consolidator Grant
Professor Gerhard Neumann at KIT has received a EUR 2.4 million ERC Consolidator Grant to improve robots' ability to perform complex tasks in real environments. His SMARTI³ project aims to develop intuitive interfaces and scalable capabilities for complex manipulation tasks.
Space-time crystals, an important step toward new optical materials
Researchers at KIT have designed tailored space-time crystals for optimal light modulation and amplification, paving the way for new optical materials. The study's breakthrough involves combining photonic time crystals with an additional spatial structure to extend bandgaps across nearly the entire momentum space.
Is it possible to balance sustainability with international growth?
A new doctoral dissertation examines how social ventures can adapt their business models to achieve international growth while maintaining their commitment to sustainability. The research offers practical guidance for policymakers, investors, and practitioners aiming to promote sustainable international business growth.
Mars’ infamous dust storms can engulf the entire planet. A new study examines how
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have discovered that relatively warm and sunny days may help to trigger major dust storms on Mars. The team found that roughly two-thirds of these storms are preceded by a sharp rise in surface temperatures, which can lead to explosive weather patterns.
Existing EV batteries may last up to 40% longer than expected
Researchers found that dynamic discharging based on real driving data helped extend battery life, with sharp accelerations slowing degradation. The study suggests a correlation between acceleration and slower aging, contrary to previous assumptions.
Dogs use two-word button combos to communicate
A new study from UC San Diego reveals that dogs trained on soundboards can make deliberate two-word button combinations to express their needs and desires. The research found that these sequences are not random but rather reflect specific requests, such as accessing the outdoors or obtaining treats.