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Science News for February 14, 2024


Study: New treatment method helps reduce suicide among military and veterans

A study by Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that crisis response planning can rapidly reduce suicidal thoughts among U.S. military members and veterans receiving massed cognitive processing therapy for PTSD. The intervention was tested in a randomized controlled trial involving 157 participants, with promising results.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJournal of Anxiety Disorders·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 14, 2024

Prosocial preferences produce socially-optimal outcomes for subsistence farming communities amid rising climate risks

A study suggests that promoting prosocial preferences in smallholder farming communities can minimize economic losses from extreme weather events. By diversifying risk transfer mechanisms and implementing formal insurance, communities can shield farmers from individual risks while protecting against collective-scale volatility.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 14, 2024

Global health photographers navigate murky ethical waters for clients

Global health photographers often engage in moderation, enhancement, and staging of images to meet marketing goals, leading to concerns over representation and consent. The study highlights the need for a more photojournalistic approach to global health imagery, prioritizing ethical clarity over economic considerations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 14, 2024

Menopause and migraines: New findings point to power of prevention

A new study found that women with migraines and long-term hot flashes or night sweats are at increased risk of heart disease and stroke. However, the research suggests that focusing on prevention and correcting unhealthy habits can help most women mitigate this risk. Women who have experienced both migraines and vasomotor symptoms for ...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalMenopause·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2024

Companies are adopting feminist narratives to influence women’s health

Researchers argue that commercial interests hijack feminist health narratives to market unproven technologies and treatments. Health professionals and governments must ensure balanced information based on high-quality scientific evidence. The authors call for wariness of simplistic messages that claim 'any knowledge is power'.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Significantly fewer births on weekends and holidays than weekdays, data analysis of over 21 million births from 1979-2018 in Japan shows

A large-scale analysis of 21 million births in Japan from 1979-2018 found significantly fewer births on weekends and holidays compared to weekdays. High-risk births became more frequent over time, especially on Thursdays and Fridays, highlighting the need for hospitals to plan and minimize risks during these periods.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Paradigm Shift: How a risk-based program is changing health care use and outcomes for children with high-risk asthma

The Changing High-Risk Asthma in Memphis through Partnership (CHAMP) program significantly decreased healthcare use related to asthma by addressing access to care, fragmented care, and social needs. After one year of enrollment, results showed a 48% reduction in ED visits, 68% reduction in inpatient and observation visits.

SourceLe Bonheur Children's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·DateFeb 14, 2024

The role of jellyfish as a food source in the Arctic winter

Researchers from the Alfred Wegener Institute have found that jellyfish serve as a vital food source for amphipods during the Arctic winter. DNA metabarcoding analysis revealed a diverse range of jellyfish species in the stomachs of amphipod species, highlighting the importance of these gelatinous organisms in the polar night diet.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Experts call for innovative strategies to address global blood crisis, form blood D.E.S.E.R.T coalition

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital propose innovative solutions to address the global blood crisis, including civilian walking blood banks and intraoperative auto-transfusion. These short-term strategies aim to increase access to blood transfusion in rural settings, where millions of people lack basic medical care.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateFeb 14, 2024

Exposure to Agent Orange damages brain tissue in ways similar to Alzheimer’s disease

A new study reveals that Agent Orange damages frontal lobe brain tissue in laboratory rats, causing molecular and biochemical abnormalities similar to early-stage Alzheimer's disease. This research has important implications for the long-term brain health of aging veterans and people exposed to biologically similar herbicides.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Gargling away the bad bacteria in type 2 diabetes

Researchers from Osaka University found that gargling with an antiseptic mouthwash can reduce periodontitis-related bacteria in patients with type 2 diabetes. This simple method may improve the lives of people with periodontitis-linked diseases such as diabetes, dementia, and cardiovascular disease.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Is the Amazon forest approaching a tipping point?

A recent study published in Nature identifies potential thresholds for stressors that could cause the Amazon forest to collapse. The research highlights the importance of understanding the most significant factors affecting the rainforest environment to develop strategies for keeping it resilient.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2024

City of Hope research featuring the successful treatment of the oldest patient to achieve remission for leukemia and HIV published in The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM)

Researchers at City of Hope successfully treated the oldest person to achieve remission for both leukemia and HIV, demonstrating the effectiveness of reduced intensity chemotherapy before a stem cell transplant. The patient, Paul Edmonds, received donor cells resistant to HIV and was cured after nearly three years without antiretrovira...

SourceCity of Hope·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Genome sequencing unveils mutational impacts of radiation on mammalian cells

A recent study published in Cell Genomics has uncovered the quantitative and qualitative mutational impacts of ionizing radiation on normal cells. The research team found that exposure to low levels of radiation resulted in an average of 14 mutations per cell, primarily causing short base deletions and complex genomic rearrangements.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalCell Genomics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 14, 2024

Climate change? Global change!

The book offers hope and impetus in the right direction by demonstrating that human courage and reason can help overcome paralyzing fear. It highlights the need for self-reliance, revitalization of human values, personal and local action, and a global perspective to steer humanity towards a modern world.

New study pinpoints startups’ vulnerabilities to innovation imitation

A new study published in the Strategic Management Journal suggests that startups are more vulnerable to innovation imitation due to knowledge spillovers and university endorsements. The study found that startups' patents receive fewer citations than established companies', despite accounting for a higher percentage of total patents.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalStrategic Management Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2024

COVID-19 vaccination and boosting during pregnancy protects infants for six months

Research from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases found that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy can provide protection to infants for at least six months. Infants born to mothers who received both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine had higher antibody levels and greater protection from infection.

Double risk of dementia after mouth ulcer virus

A new study from Uppsala University found that people who have had herpes virus are twice as likely to develop dementia as those who have never been infected. The researchers studied 1,000 70-year-olds over 15 years and confirmed previous research on the potential link between herpes and dementia.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Spaces to make-do and mend would bring new life into high streets, study says

A new study by the University of Exeter suggests that incorporating spaces for repairing and remaking clothes in shopping centers can promote sustainable fashion practices. Participants who took part in workshops reported engaging in more environmentally-oriented behaviors, such as buying fewer items and sourcing clothes ethically.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalSustainability·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Smoking has long-term effects on the immune system

A recent study published in Nature found that smoking has a lasting effect on the immune system, with certain defense mechanisms persisting for up to 10-15 years after quitting. The research used a large cohort of healthy volunteers and identified three key factors: smoking, latent cytomegalovirus infection, and body mass index.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2024

A lighthouse in the Gobi desert

A new study quantifies the impact of great fossil sites on our understanding of evolutionary relationships between fossil groups, discovering that the Gobi Desert's well-preserved lizard record shapes understanding more than any other site. The study's findings highlight the importance of exceptional fossil preservation in shaping our ...

SourceNatural History Museum of Los Angeles County·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2024

By growing animal cells in rice grains, scientists dish up hybrid food

Korean scientists have successfully grown animal muscle and fat cells inside rice grains, resulting in a nutritious and flavorful hybrid food. The cell-cultured beef rice has been found to have 8% more protein and 7% more fat than regular rice, making it a potential alternative to traditional livestock-based protein sources.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

New treatment developed to dramatically slow down the progression of blindness-causing retinal diseases

Researchers have successfully developed a hydrogel that slowly releases anti-inflammatory drugs to suppress inflammation in the retina and effectively deliver the drugs to the inflamed area. This innovation is expected to reduce patients' inconvenience of frequent injections, alleviate economic burden, and delay vision loss.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·Journalnpj Regenerative Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2024

Cost-effective to routinely change surgical gloves and instruments as well as being safer

A new study has found that routinely changing surgical gloves and instruments is cost-effective and safer, reducing surgical site infections (SSIs) by 13% in seven low- and middle-income countries. The economic evaluation, funded by the UK's National Institute for Health and Care Research, compared the costs and SSIs associated with ro...

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2024

How our brains' beta waves predict stuttering

A team of researchers from New York University recruited 30 stutterers and monitored their brain activity using magnetoencephalography (MEG) while they spoke. The study found increased beta waves associated with cues that preceded stuttered words, suggesting a predictive link between brain activity and stuttering.

SourceNew York University·JournalNeurobiology of Language·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Some Pre-Roman humans were buried with dogs, horses and other animals

A study of human-animal co-burials from ancient Italy suggests that the practice may have been related to enduring companion relationships or religious beliefs. Researchers found that the people buried with animals did not share common traits, leaving multiple interpretations for this phenomenon.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Research suggests tai chi outperforms conventional exercise in improving mobility and balance in seniors

A new review of 12 studies involving 2,901 participants found that tai chi was more effective than conventional exercise in improving functional mobility and balance. The study also identified specific factors, such as shorter duration and Yang-style focus, that contributed to the benefits.

A sense of touch: ASICs are the receptor for a proton synaptic messenger between Merkel cells and an afferent nerve

A study by University of Alabama at Birmingham researchers discovered that protons are the primary signals transmitting tactile sensations from Merkel cells to nerves. Protons bind to ASIC receptors on nerve endings, triggering an influx of sodium ions that propagate action potentials up the nerve towards the brain.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Wound-homing molecule accelerates tissue repair

A study published in Nature Communications reports the discovery of a wound-homing molecule called CAR peptide, which accelerates tissue repair by activating natural healing pathways. The treatment shows promise for treating various injuries, including muscle ruptures and bone fractures, without forming less functional scar tissue.

SourceTampere University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 2024

State-owned firms can mitigate additional regulatory scrutiny when making foreign acquisitions by considering the social and political implications of the deal

State-owned enterprises experience greater regulatory scrutiny in foreign acquisitions, but acknowledging social and political dynamics can help temper this liability. SOEs can also work with local communities to overcome negative perception by acquiring firms through subsidiaries or committing to local employment, reducing additional ...

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalGlobal Strategy Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2024

NTU Singapore scientists produce innovative ultrathin and stretchable electronics with wide range of applications in health and wellness

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, have created soft electronic sensors that can detect bioelectric signals from skin, muscles, and organs. These sensors empower individuals with limb disabilities to control robotic prostheses, machinery, and motorized wheelchairs using alternative muscle movements.

Chinese Medical Journal Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine study reports a novel prognostic biomarker for lung cancer

Researchers identify a promising prognostic biomarker for lung cancer using circulating tumor DNA-based minimal residual disease detection. The study found that this method can effectively guide treatment decisions and predict recurrence risk, potentially modifying the lung cancer treatment paradigm.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal - Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 14, 2024

A metamaterial for converting circular vibration ultrasound, capable of detecting cracks that occur in various directions inside structures such as buildings bridges and aircraft, has been developed for the first time in the world

A new metamaterial has been developed to convert circular vibration ultrasound, enabling the detection of cracks in various directions within structures. This technology is expected to improve the functionality of existing ultrasonic technologies and be used for industrial non-destructive testing and ultrasound imaging.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 2024

Eminent brain injury expert narrows the gap in understanding legal complexities in cases involving persons with disorders of consciousness

A narrative review article in NeuroRehabilitation addresses the medicolegal challenges of litigating cases involving patients with disorders of consciousness. Clinicians and neurolitigators must be aware of the nuances, including terminology, assessment, prognosis, treatment, and patient rights.

SourceIOS Press·JournalNeuroRehabilitation An International Interdisciplinary Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 14, 2024

Biomanufacturing using chemically synthesized sugars enables sustainable supply of sugar without competing with food

Researchers from Osaka University developed an innovative biomanufacturing technology using chemically synthesized non-natural sugars, enabling fermentation production of lactate and solving the problem of competing with food. This achievement will expand biomanufacturing and provide a sustainable raw sugar supply.

SourceOsaka University·JournalChemBioChem·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Neuronal insights: flash and freeze-fracture

Researchers at ISTA developed a novel 'Flash and Freeze-fracture' technique to analyze brain region communication. The method reveals that neurons in the medial habenula exhibit unusual behavior, contradicting general understanding, and provides insights into protein localization and synapse strengthening.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Climate change drived the emergence of West Nile virus in Europe

A study by researchers at Université libre de Bruxelles found that climate change is a significant driver of West Nile virus emergence in Europe. The virus can now be transmitted to humans through mosquitoes, posing a public health threat. Climate change is also linked to an increase in population density and the spread of the virus.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2024

Genetic and therapeutic landscapes in cohort of pancreatic adenocarcinomas using NGS and machine learning

A study published in Oncotarget has identified specific mutational and therapeutic landscapes of pancreatic cancer in the Russian population. By applying machine learning models to full exome individual data, researchers received personalized recommendations for targeted treatment options for each clinical case.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

It's award season: let's celebrate microbes in movies

A new publication provides insights into the relationship between movies and microbiology, exploring how films can educate the public about microbial concepts. The review highlights examples of movies that accurately portray scientific concepts, such as viral host recognition and epidemiology, to teach undergraduate students.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalFEMS Microbiology Letters·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 14, 2024

Doctors quitting over stress and cost of finding suitable childcare

A BMJ survey shows that more than nine out of ten doctors have struggled to find suitable childcare for their work schedule, with many citing high costs as a major issue. The survey found that the lack of flexible and affordable childcare options is leading to stress, guilt, and even career change among doctor parents.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 14, 2024

Fight against malaria takes a step forward

Scientists at the University of California, Riverside, have identified 898 RNA-dependent proteins in the deadliest human malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. These findings could lead to novel therapeutic targets against malaria and highlight the importance of RNAs in biological pathways in the parasite.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024