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Science News for December 3, 2024


Regional, racial, and economic disparities in cancer risk from air pollution exposure persist, but improving, new research suggests

A new study finds that urban communities, lower-income areas, and those with higher proportions of racial minorities have higher estimated cancer risks from air pollution. Despite this, the disparity is decreasing over time, suggesting improvements in air pollution control measures.

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 3, 2024

UCLA professor Helen Lavretsky reshapes brain health through integrative medicine research

Professor Lavretsky's pioneering work integrates conventional psychiatric treatments with mind-body interventions, developing novel therapeutic combinations for treatment-resistant depression and cognitive disorders. Her research has transformed approaches to mental health and aging, emphasizing whole person health and prevention.

SourceGenomic Press·JournalBrain Medicine·TypeNews article·DateDec 3, 2024

Tiny, daily bursts of vigorous incidental physical activity could almost halve cardiovascular risk in middle-aged women

A study found that middle-aged women who engaged in short bursts of vigorous physical activity, such as carrying shopping or power walking, had a significantly lower risk of heart attacks and heart failure. Women who averaged 3.4 minutes of daily activity were 45% less likely to experience a major cardiovascular event.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 3, 2024

Fred Hutch at ASH: Plenary session on socioeconomic barriers to transplant, new leukemia treatments and phasing out ‘cumbersome’ urine test

Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center are addressing socioeconomic barriers to access to life-saving transplants for blood disorders. New leukemia treatment regimens have shown promise in clinical trials, while a prediction model highlights improved survivorship and quality of life outcomes for older patients after transplant.

Brain mapping advances understanding of human speech and hallucinations in schizophrenia

Researchers mapped auditory corollary discharge signals in the brain's motor cortex to better understand human speech and hallucinations in schizophrenia. Disruptions to this system are thought to be hallmarks of auditory hallucinations, offering a new explanation for the source of these symptoms.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2024

Tiny dancers: Scientists synchronise bacterial motion

Researchers at Delft University of Technology discovered that E. coli bacteria can synchronise their movements by trapping individual cells in micro-engineered cavities and coupling them through narrow channels. The team observed coordinated bacterial motion and found that the synchronized movement adhered to universal mathematical rules.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2024

New drug candidate for spinocerebellar ataxia

A Phase 2 trial evaluated L-arginine's efficacy and safety in patients with spinocerebellar ataxia type 6, showing a mild improvement in ataxia symptoms. However, the treatment effect was not statistically significant, requiring further investigation to confirm its effectiveness.

SourceNiigata University·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateDec 3, 2024

Princeton Chemistry advances combo-drug treatment to combat Melioidosis

Researchers at Princeton Chemistry have developed a promising combination-drug treatment for melioidosis, a bacterial infection that causes fever, pneumonia, and sepsis. The approach targets the pathogen's unique metabolic vulnerabilities with low-dose antibiotics, leaving gut microbiome bacteria unscathed.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2024

Approaching the unexplored “plasma phase-space” with data science

Scientists at National Institute for Fusion Science create high-speed plasma phase-space distribution measurement, improving data resolution by 50-fold. The new technique reveals wave-particle interactions and simultaneous rightward-leftward waves, leading to more efficient plasma heating.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2024

Printed e-tattoo ink-credible at reading brainwaves

Scientists at the University of Texas at Austin and UCLA have created an e-tattoo that can measure brain activity using electroencephalography (EEG). The new method uses a camera to map the individual head's shape digitally, allowing for more precise sensor placement. This innovation could transform brain-computer interfaces, making th...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalCell Biomaterials·DateDec 3, 2024

New bioprinting technique creates functional tissue 10x faster

A team of researchers at Penn State developed a novel bioprinting technique that uses spheroids to create complex tissue, producing tissue 10-times faster and with high cell density. The technique enables the rapid fabrication of functional tissues and organs, opening new opportunities for regenerative medicine.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2024

Research on neurodegeneration in spider brain leads Vermont neuroscientists to groundbreaking new discovery in Alzheimer’s-affected human brains

Researchers found a 'waste canal system' in the human brain that internalizes waste from healthy neurons, leading to catastrophic swelling and degeneration. The discovery offers a promising new explanation for Alzheimer's disease pathologies and potential avenues for drug development.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalJournal of Comparative Neurology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 3, 2024

Twenty-seven scientists become EMBO Young Investigators

EMBO has announced the selection of 27 young scientists to join its prestigious Young Investigator Programme, with projects spanning cell and computational biology, immunology, neuroscience, and more. The programme supports innovation and collaboration among new leaders in life sciences.

SourceEMBO·DateDec 3, 2024

University Hospitals Connor Whole Health study finds spinal manipulative therapy benefits patients with tension-type headaches

A retrospective study of over 6,200 patients found that spinal manipulative therapy significantly reduced the need for butalbital prescriptions and medication overuse headache. Patients receiving SMT were also less likely to develop MOH, with only 1.7% prescribed butalbital compared to 3.8% in non-SMT groups.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalHealth Science Reports·DateDec 3, 2024

A caving expedition yields valuable insight into the challenges of field research

Researchers conducted a caving expedition to gather data on the effects of environmental stressors on human cognition, collecting useful insights despite logistical challenges. The study proposed a framework for future field-based cognitive science research, offering lessons beyond traditional lab settings.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 3, 2024

NUS and A*STAR researchers discover cell-type-specific link between alternative splicing and autoimmune disease inheritance

Researchers from NUS and A*STAR have discovered a connection between the regulation of alternative splicing in different cell types and the predisposition to autoimmune diseases. The study used a population-scale single-cell gene expression profiling dataset to analyze splicing events specific to particular cell types, revealing ancest...

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 3, 2024

COVID infection and age-related blindness

An experimental study in mice found that SARS-CoV-2 infection can damage the retinas, leading to long-term implications for vision. The virus caused widespread inflammation across the retinal pigment epithelium, including complement activation and increased production of inflammatory cytokines.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 3, 2024

Moving towards low-carbon road transport

The concept uses two-step conversion of surplus electricity into hydrogen and synthetic fuels, storing energy in the form of methane and methanol. Biogas plants are used to produce CO2, which is then converted into these molecules. The stored energy can be used to fuel hydrogen-powered vehicles or generate electricity.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalEnergy Conversion and Management·DateDec 3, 2024

Rats on cocaine: When aversion is not enough

A new study found that rats' responses to cocaine paired with aversive quinine reveal individual susceptibility to addiction. The research suggests that people's reactions to the unpleasant aspects of drug consumption can play a crucial role in determining their risk of developing substance use disorders.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateDec 3, 2024

Gourds made by Indigenous women supplied the European luxury market in the 18th century

Indigenous women in the Amazon region of Brazil created varnished gourds with complex decorations inspired by local flora and fauna as well as European and Asian embroidery patterns. The craft was recognized at the beginning of the 18th century and was mainly produced for the European market, participating in a process of globalization.

The academic journal “Polar Science” features the seventh International Symposium on Arctic Research (ISAR-7)

The seventh International Symposium on Arctic Research (ISAR-7) addressed Arctic changes' impacts on residents and the global community. The symposium featured diverse presentations covering atmospheric sciences, terrestrial science, and humanities, highlighting the need for interdisciplinary research to achieve sustainable development.

Gluing treatment to cancer

Combining PVA with a boron-containing compound improved the effects of radiation therapy for cancer, making it more selective of tumor cells and prolonging drug retention. This breakthrough could lead to more effective treatment options for challenging cancers.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2024

Study finds American, Canadian universities vary widely in preparing future urban planners for climate change

Research from the University of Kansas found that American and Canadian universities have made progress in addressing climate change in their curriculum, but vary widely in how they approach it. The majority of programs include climate change as an elective course, with a focus on adaptation rather than mitigation.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalPlanning Practice and Research·TypeSurvey·DateDec 3, 2024

Streams near farms emit high levels of greenhouse gas, studies find

Researchers found that streams near farms are a significant source of nitrous oxide emissions, with some areas emitting up to half of the total emissions in the region. The study suggests that targeting mitigation efforts on streams and rivers connected to agricultural soils can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Researchers design a therapeutic tool to inhibit the proliferation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19

Researchers have developed a novel therapeutic approach using polypurine hairpins to inhibit the replication of SARS-CoV-2. The technique has shown promising results in laboratory animal models and Vero E6 cells, providing a potential new tool in the fight against COVID-19 and other viral diseases.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2024

Monell Chemical Senses Center and A*Star SIFBI sign agreement to collaborate in sensory science research and education

The Monell Chemical Senses Center and A*Star SIFBI are exploring the unique sensory differences between Asian and Western populations to develop products that resonate with local consumers. They aim to create sensory testing protocols specific to Asians, transforming food and nutrition strategies for companies globally.

Innovative vortex beam technology unleashes ultra-secure, high-capacity data transmission

Researchers developed a breakthrough optical technology, SC-PVVBs, that can carry vast amounts of information, making them ideal for dense data communication systems. The technology overcomes conventional optical beam limitations by locally patching spatial frequency to create multiple data channels.

The Universitat Rovira i Virgili leads a protocol to improve the durability of flexible photovoltaic devices

A standardized testing protocol has been developed to evaluate the efficiency, flexibility, and mechanical performance of flexible photovoltaic devices. The protocol focuses on measuring efficiency over 1,000 bending cycles, providing a benchmark for evaluating these devices in real-life conditions.

SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2024

Rates of breast reconstruction after mastectomy have stabilized

Recent US data analysis reveals stabilization of breast reconstruction rates after mastectomy, with a decrease in disparities among racial and insurance groups. The study analyzed over 1.5 million patients from 2005 to 2017, finding that nearly one-third underwent immediate reconstruction, with a shift towards more equitable distribution.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateDec 3, 2024

Billions of people to benefit from technology breakthrough that ensures freshwater for the world

Researchers from UniSA have developed a simple strategy to increase seawater evaporation rates, making desalination more energy-efficient and sustainable. By introducing clay minerals into a photothermal hydrogel evaporator, they achieved a 18.8% higher evaporation rate for seawater compared to pure water.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2024

Small amounts of incidental vigorous physical exertion may almost halve major cardiovascular events risk in women

Research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that just 1.5-4 daily minutes of high-intensity routine activities like brisk stair climbing or carrying heavy shopping can significantly lower cardiovascular disease risk among women who don't exercise regularly. The study, which tracked over 81,000 middle-aged men and...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 3, 2024

Home and neighborhood environments impact sedentary behavior in teens globally

A multinational study of 14 countries found that having a personal social media account was linked to higher total sedentary time in both males and females. Adolescents who reported less recreational screen time lived in walkable neighborhoods and had better perceptions of safety.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·TypeObservational study·DateDec 3, 2024

Energy crisis in kidney cells

A new study published in Nature Communications reveals that energy imbalances in podocytes contribute to kidney damage and proteinuria after ischemia-reperfusion injury. The researchers found that interventions targeting mitochondrial dynamics held promise in alleviating foot process effacement and improving podocyte outcomes.

SourceInstitute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2024

Pioneering neuroendocrinologist shapes brain research at 100 while still making discoveries

Dr. Seymour Reichlin's centennial celebration highlights his ongoing scientific impact, with recent collaborations yielding new insights into hormone therapies for cognitive enhancement and emotional homeostasis. His work has established neuroendocrinology as a distinct field, bridging neuroscience, endocrinology, and clinical medicine.

SourceGenomic Press·JournalBrain Medicine·TypeNews article·DateDec 3, 2024

People who use vapes as well as cigarettes are less likely to quit and often switch to just smoking

Research reveals that people who use both vapes and cigarettes are less likely to quit smoking compared to those who only smoke or vape. Dual users tend to revert to only smoking cigarettes over time. The study suggests that taking up vaping while continuing to smoke will not help people stop smoking.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalERJ Open Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 3, 2024

Discovery may open new way to attack prostate cancer

Researchers activate glycoprotein 130 and its associated signaling pathway to slow down tumor growth in prostate cancer, stimulating immune system to fight tumour cells. Studies of tissue samples from prostate cancer patients show positive correlation with better survival rates.

SourceUmea University·JournalMolecular Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2024

Taking high-dose vitamin D supplements for five years did not affect the incidence of type 2 diabetes

Researchers from the University of Eastern Finland found that high-dose vitamin D supplements over five years had no impact on type 2 diabetes development among those without prediabetes. The Finnish Vitamin D Trial revealed no statistically significant difference in disease incidence between groups receiving different doses of vitamin D.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalDiabetologia·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 3, 2024

Two ERC Consolidator Grants in medicine

Researchers at the University of Bonn are developing an AI foundation model to improve radiology and detect Parkinson's disease earlier. The 'Re-Start PD' project aims to identify the condition before symptoms appear, with potential applications in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Parasite-inspired medical devices

Researchers designed a millimeter-scale mechanism inspired by tapeworms to anchor small medical devices to soft tissues. The device, made of stainless steel and polyimide film, can be used in various medical applications and has potential for affixing sensors to marine organisms.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 3, 2024