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Science News Archive December 2024 - Page 31


Page 31 of 39

Proposed wastewater release into Cape Cod Bay likely to remain in bay for at least one month, study finds

Scientists predict the proposed wastewater release into Cape Cod Bay will stay in the bay for at least a month, with seasonal winds affecting its spread. The study used high-resolution ocean circulation models to simulate the plume's behavior and found that the majority of the water will come close to the shore before leaving the bay.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalJournal of Physical Oceanography·TypeObservational study·DateDec 5, 2024

Buffalo besties: Feral female buffalo build friendships based on similar personality traits

A new study has discovered that close spatial proximity serves as an indicator of friendship in feral female buffalo, with individual personalities playing a key role. The research found that buffalo with similar social tension, vigilance, and general dominance traits tended to spend more time together.

Food allergy anxiety at 30,000 feet

A global survey of over 4,700 food allergy patients and families found airline travel to be a significant source of worry and anxiety. The study suggests that reasonable accommodations, such as pre-boarding and allergen-free zones, can reduce stress for travelers with food allergies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Allergy·DateDec 5, 2024

Preparing for the worst: Healthcare can check readiness for bird flu spread

Infectious disease experts suggest that hospitals closely monitor local and national cases of bird flu and screen patients with flu-like symptoms for contact with farm animals. Effective communication is essential for fostering trust and reducing anxiety among healthcare personnel, patients, and the public.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 5, 2024

A blueprint for the brain's circadian clock

A team of researchers has created the first complete map of the brain's circadian clock in the fly Drosophila, revealing at least 240 neurons involved in regulating daily rhythms. This detailed mapping provides a foundation for exploring circadian dysregulation linked to health conditions such as sleep disorders and metabolic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 5, 2024

Open those windows: Natural ventilation in historic buildings can reduce mechanical system use, save energy and create healthier indoor environments

Researchers at Drexel University investigated natural ventilation strategies in historic homes to understand how their inherent energy-efficient features can inform modern energy conservation efforts. The study found that passive cooling and cross-ventilation can achieve energy savings and improve thermal comfort, particularly in hot a...

SourceDrexel University·JournalEnergy and Buildings·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 5, 2024

Unveiling unknown chemicals in human serum samples

A study by Chiba University researchers has identified 106 compounds in pregnant women's serum samples, including phthalates, nitrogenous compounds, and parabens, which may impact biological pathways. The study proposes a non-targeted approach for detecting foreign chemicals and evaluating their potential health effects.

SourceChiba University·JournalEcotoxicology and Environmental Safety·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 5, 2024

20th century lead exposure damaged American mental health

A new study finds that lead exposure during childhood altered the balance of mental health in the US population, leading to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The research estimates that 151 million Americans have experienced psychiatric disorders as a result of lead exposure.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateDec 4, 2024

Low meat intake fuels concerns over child nutrition

A study found that only a small percentage of Ethiopian children under five regularly consume animal-sourced foods, limiting their dietary diversity. Introducing just one meat item into a child's diet each day could make a dramatic difference in preventing stunting and improving cognitive capacity.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalMaternal and Child Nutrition·DateDec 4, 2024

Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD, wins prestigious award from the International Atherosclerosis Society

Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD, has made significant contributions to the understanding of atherosclerosis through his research on inflammation, thrombosis, and treatment breakthroughs. His work has led to major advances in diagnosis and therapy, including the development of a cardiovascular 'polypill' that reduces cardiovascular mortality.

Insects wearing two hats solve botanical mystery

Researchers at Kobe University have discovered that ants and camel crickets are crucial in the pollination and seed dispersal of rare parasitic plants. These tiny arthropods play a unique dual role, visiting flowers for pollen and nectar while later feeding on leaves carrying seeds.

SourceKobe University·JournalEcology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 4, 2024

Infertility linked to onset of systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease after childbirth

Women with infertility are at higher risk of developing SARD, including lupus and Sjögren's syndrome, even after accounting for pre-eclampsia and other pregnancy complications. Infertility treatments do not appear to increase this risk, suggesting that women may be undiagnosed or untreated.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeObservational study·DateDec 4, 2024

ETSU secures $900k defense grant

The US Department of Defense has awarded East Tennessee State University's Research Corporation over $900,000 to create a biomanufacturing facility that turns waste streams into valuable products. The project aims to bolster domestic bioindustrial manufacturing and advance sustainable manufacturing goals in Northeast Tennessee.