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Science News for February 21, 2024


Increasingly similar or different? Centuries-long analysis suggests biodiversity is differentiating and homogenizing to a comparable extent

A new study finds that biodiversity is becoming more similar through time, but an almost equal number of communities are becoming more distinct. The analysis of 527 datasets shows a balanced trend between homogenisation and differentiation across landscapes.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 2024

Can’t stand gossip? New research suggests that gabbing about others is ‘not always a bad thing’

Gossiping provides a social benefit by disseminating information about people's reputations, helping recipients connect with cooperative individuals while avoiding selfish ones. This allows gossipers to gain an evolutionary advantage as their actions influence others' behavior and encourage cooperation.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 2024

An environmentally friendly way to turn seafood waste into value-added products

UConn researchers have developed a method to sustainably recover chitin, the second most abundant biological polymer on Earth, from seafood waste using natural chemicals. The process creates a viscous solution called ternary deep eutectic solvents (TDESs) that selectively extracts chitin, leaving behind unwanted components.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Blood test could determine diabetes risks

A new study from Edith Cowan University found that a blood test using joint cumulative high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and monocyte to high-density lipoprotein ratio can predict type 2 diabetes risk more effectively. Females were most at risk with significant interaction between MHR and CRP observed.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalJournal of Translational Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 21, 2024

Biodiversity footprints for 151 dishes from around the world show that dishes with a larger impact on biodiversity tend to be meat, legume, or rice-based

A study of 151 popular dishes found that those made with beef, chicken, legumes, and rice have a significant impact on biodiversity. Dishes from Brazil and India were found to have large biodiversity footprints due to the conversion of natural habitats to agricultural land.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma incidence and mortality in the USA by sex, age, and race: A nationwide analysis of two decades

Recent US nationwide data reveal rising HCC incidence and mortality rates primarily affecting men and older adults. The study highlights disparities among racial/ethnic groups and underscores the need for targeted early detection, intervention, and treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateFeb 21, 2024

AGA now recommends fecal microbiota transplant for the majority of recurrent C. diff patients

The American Gastroenterological Association recommends fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) as a safe and effective treatment for most patients with recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection. FMT offers hope to patients suffering from debilitating C. diff, enabling them to lead happy and healthy lives.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGastroenterology·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 21, 2024

Outsmarting chemo-resistant ovarian cancer

Researchers have discovered a new way to target chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer cells by depriving them of cholesterol, leading to significant tumor growth reduction. The nanoparticles starve the cells of cholesterol, triggering cell death through oxidation of lipids in the cell membrane.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2024

UT Health Science Center researchers partner on multi-institutional $20 million award to develop new radiopharmaceutical cancer therapies

Researchers at UT Health Science Center, in collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, will develop new radiopharmaceutical therapies to treat cancer. The team aims to advance precision cancer treatment using targeted alpha-emitting radioisotope constructs.

How does the brain make decisions?

A new mouse study has uncovered the neural connections that help shape decisions, finding sequential groups of neurons activated and suppressed to reinforce a choice. The research combines structural, functional, and behavioral analyses to explore how neuron-to-neuron connections support decision-making in the brain.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateFeb 21, 2024

UNC Lineberger named as a national research hub for NIH cancer screening study

The UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center has been selected as a national research site for the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Screening Research Network. The network will conduct large-scale studies using emerging cancer screening technologies to identify effective and accurate methods for early detection and prevention. The ...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 21, 2024

Climate change increases the risk of preterm births by 60% and will devastate children’s health without fast global action

A new study links climate change to a 60% increase in preterm births and severe respiratory diseases. Without global action, climate-driven extremes will devastate children's health for generations, with the strongest link found between temperature extremes and increased risk of preterm birth.

SourceFlinders University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 2024

Death and grief in Swedish children’s books

A study of 62 Swedish children's books found that most depict death through metaphors, making it difficult for children to understand. Rakel Eklund's research highlights the need for more books that openly discuss death and grief from the child's perspective.

SourceUppsala University·JournalDeath Studies·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 21, 2024

Inaccurate pulse oximeter readings could limit transplants, heart pumps for Black patients with heart failure

Researchers found that pulse oximeters underestimate blood pumping and overestimate resistance, affecting treatment decisions. Direct blood oxygen measurement is crucial for accurate guidance, especially for Black patients already at higher risk.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCirculation Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2024

New diagnostic tool for femoral osteoporosis improves the efficacy and viability of current methods

The new diagnostic tool, 3D-DXA, complements DXA with computational and statistical systems to estimate mineral density and obtain detailed three-dimensional images. This method has the potential to improve diagnoses and detect up to 50% more patients at high risk of femur fracture.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalJournal of Clinical Densitometry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 2024

Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats has long been in flux

New research from the University of Utah reveals that pollen analysis indicates salt crusts formed between 5,400 and 3,500 years ago, contradicting the long-held assumption that they formed when Lake Bonneville dried up 13,000 years ago. The study's findings suggest a dynamic landscape with significant erosion and sediment accumulation.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalQuaternary Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 2024

Groundbreaking new data can make us better understand glaciers.

A new high-resolution dataset from Svalbard's glaciers provides unprecedented insights into calving front changes, revealing a retreating trend for most glaciers. The data can be used to improve mass balance assessments and explore drivers of glacier calving, crucial for understanding climate change's impact on the Arctic Cryosphere.

SourceGRID-Arendal·JournalEarth System Science Data·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 2024

Can yoga effectively treat chronic back pain?

A recent study found that yoga significantly reduced pain intensity in women with chronic low back pain, with a notable decrease in flexion-relaxation phenomenon. The research suggests yoga can positively impact chronic back pain management, although further studies are needed to assess its long-term effects.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Research®·DateFeb 21, 2024

Unraveling the pH-dependent oxygen reduction performance on single-atom catalysts

The study revealed a pH-dependent evolution in the catalytic activity of M-N-C materials, with some exhibiting remarkable stability and performance across acidic and alkaline environments. The researchers validated their theoretical predictions, affirming the accuracy of their models in predicting key catalytic parameters.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 21, 2024

Scientists from IOCB Prague have improved materials for reconstructive and plastic surgery

Researchers from IOCB Prague and Ghent University have developed 3D-printable gelatin-based materials that can be easily monitored using X-rays or CT scans. This improvement enables the tracking of implant biodegradation and mechanical failures, allowing for tailored clinical requirements.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalACS Applied Engineering Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Solar-driven green synthesis of epoxides

Recent advances in solar-driven photo(electro)chemistry enable environmentally-friendly synthesis of epoxides, reducing reliance on hazardous oxidants and fossil fuels. Emerging systems promote efficient epoxide production with improved catalytic selectivity.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateFeb 21, 2024

Wistar scientists discover link between leaky gut and accelerated biological aging

Researchers found a significant connection between disrupted gut microbiomes, increased intestinal permeability, and faster biological aging in people living with chronic HIV infection. The study highlights specific bacteria as potential accelerators of aging, opening new avenues for developing strategies to mitigate these effects.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalMicrobiome·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Intravascular imaging significantly improves survival, safety, and outcomes in cardiovascular stenting procedures over conventional angiography

Using intravascular imaging to guide stent implantation significantly improves survival and reduces adverse cardiovascular events compared to angiography-guided PCI. The study found a 25% reduction in all-cause death, 45% reduction in cardiac death, and improved outcomes for patients with coronary artery disease.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 21, 2024

Modeling tree masting

Researchers at Hokkaido University developed new computer-based models of masting to understand its effects on ecosystems and food webs. The models predict that masting can affect tree mortality, population dynamics, and animal-forest interactions, with implications for mitigating negative impacts of climate change.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalEcological Modelling·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 2024

Chan Zuckerberg Initiative selects U of M Medical School assistant professor for collaborative grant award

Madhu Kannan, a University of Minnesota Medical School assistant professor, has been selected for the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative's Collaborative Pairs Pilot Project Awards to explore innovative approaches to understanding human prion diseases. The project will utilize cutting-edge approaches combining gene editing and neural activity i...

Perovskite single-pixel detector for efficient extraction of meta-images in complex environments

A new perovskite single-pixel detector efficiently extracts dual-color metasurface images in complex environments, leveraging wavelength-selective properties and high detection sensitivity. The system streamlines image extraction with no need for additional filters, reducing cost and time.

Mitochondrial activation in transplanted cells promotes regenerative therapy for heart healing

Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a technique to promote cardiac regeneration by activating mitochondrial function in transplanted cells. The study found that activated mitochondria improved cardiac function and suppressed myocardial fibrosis, suggesting a new approach for treating severe heart failure.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Older adults with a history of stroke at high risk of pandemic-induced depression

A new study from the University of Toronto found that older Canadians with a history of stroke experienced depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among those with no lifetime history of depression, immigrant status and family stressors were associated with an increased risk of incident depression.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalInternational Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2024

New water batteries stay cool under pressure

A global team of researchers has invented recyclable water batteries that don't catch fire or explode, addressing safety concerns in lithium-ion technology. The batteries use abundant materials like magnesium and zinc, reducing manufacturing costs and environmental risks.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2024

KIER’s success in the development of the world's top-level semi-transparent perovskite solar cells

Researchers tackled metal oxide layer degradation in semi-transparent perovskite solar cells, discovering lithium ions diffuse into the buffer layer, degrading its characteristics. Optimizing oxidation time led to a stable device with impressive efficiency and retention of over 99% initial efficiency.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateFeb 21, 2024

Physicists discover a quantum state with a new type of emergent particles: six-flux composite fermions

Researchers at Purdue University have discovered a new type of emergent particle, the six-flux composite fermion, which explains rare quantum states in host materials. This discovery expands our understanding of topological electron physics and has significant implications for the ordering of known fractional quantum Hall states.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 21, 2024

Accurate quantitative analysis on information loss of digital metasurface caused by mutual coupling

Researchers developed a novel method to quantify information loss caused by mutual coupling in digital metasurfaces. The study found that the probability distribution of current on the metasurface is a set of dependent normal distributions, indicating significant information loss when converting digital signals into electromagnetic waves.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateFeb 21, 2024

A Mount Sinai-led study shows early success of a novel drug in treating a rare and chronic blood cancer

A phase 2 study by Mount Sinai-led researchers demonstrates rusfertide's ability to limit excess red blood cell production in patients with polycythemia vera, a rare and chronic blood cancer. The results suggest it could replace therapeutic phlebotomy, providing improved treatment options for patients.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 21, 2024

Chronic exposure to air pollution may increase risk of cardiovascular hospitalization among seniors

A new study found that chronic exposure to PM2.5 is associated with increased risk of hospital admission for various cardiovascular conditions, particularly ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease. The study suggests that lowering annual average PM2.5 levels could decrease overall cardiovascular hospitalizations by 15%.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalBMJ·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Black hole at center of the Milky Way resembles a football

A new study using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory and VLA data reveals that the supermassive black hole Sagittarius A* is spinning at about 60% of its maximum possible speed. This spin could provide an incredibly powerful kick to surrounding matter if the amount of material in the vicinity increases.

SourcePenn State·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 21, 2024

Children born in October least likely to get flu

A US study published in The BMJ found that children born in October are less likely to get the flu and more likely to be vaccinated. The study suggests that October is the optimal time for young children to receive an annual flu shot, aligning with current recommendations.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Stable intense supercontinuum light generation from 1kHz femtosecond laser filamentation in air

Researchers have successfully generated a stable high-intensity and high-repetition supercontinuum white light source in air using femtosecond laser filamentation with an external DC electric field. This method suppresses thermal jitter by generating an ionic wind, improving beam pointing stability and signal-to-noise ratio.

Pennington Biomedical researchers looking for new ways to improve life span and health during aging

Researchers found that a compound called BAM15 makes mitochondria less efficient at producing energy, extending life span and improving body composition in fruit flies. The study also showed reduced age-related decline in motor activity. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings in humans.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalAging Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2024

General deep learning framework for emissivity engineering

A team of scientists proposed a general deep learning framework based on DQN algorithm to efficiently design wavelength-selective thermal emitters (WS-TEs) with excellent performance for different applications. The framework autonomously selects materials and optimizes structural parameters for optimal emissivity spectra.

The cultural evolution of collective property rights

A new simulation model examines the conditions under which institutions emerge and persist, highlighting the critical role of competition and learning from out-groups. The study builds on Elinor Ostrom's design principles for successful management, shifting focus to understanding how collective property rights arise and spread.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalNature Sustainability·DateFeb 21, 2024

Seaports are hotspots of contagious cancer in mussels

Research finds seaports facilitate the spread of MtrBTN2, a rare contagious cancer in mussels, through biofouling. The disease is threatening coastal ecosystems and argues in favor of mitigation policies to stem its spread.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateFeb 21, 2024

Vlasov and Bashir groups develop nanoscale device for brain chemistry analysis

The University of Illinois has developed a new nanoscale sensor that can monitor areas 1,000 times smaller than traditional technology, tracking subtle changes in brain chemistry with sub-second resolution. The device takes advantage of silicon-based manufacturing techniques to achieve 100% efficiency and high spatial resolution.

Why are fish getting smaller as waters warm? It’s not their gills, finds study led by UMass Amherst

A study led by UMass Amherst found that increased temperatures do lead to decreased body size in fish, but gill surface area does not explain the change. The researchers challenged widely cited model projections of drastic reductions in future global fisheries yields, suggesting that models need to be reconsidered.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 21, 2024

Heavy alcohol, drug use linked to increased risk of falls among people with HIV

A new study has found that heavy alcohol use and illicit opioid use are linked to a higher risk of falls and fractures among people living with HIV. The study suggests the need for targeted clinical screening and interventions to prevent falls and related injuries, particularly among populations already at risk.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Neural network assisted high-spatial-resolution polarimetry

A new method combines a tri-channel chiral metasurface with a deep convolutional neural network to analyze polarizations, achieving fast, robust, and accurate measurements. This approach supports high spatial resolution requirements and compact design, enabling diverse applications in remote sensing, astronomy, biology, and microscopy.

Research progress reveals faster, more accurate blood flow simulation to revolutionise treatment of vascular diseases

Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed new methods to simulate blood flow, enabling faster and more accurate modeling of vascular diseases. These advancements have the potential to transform medical treatment and device innovation, providing real-time insights during surgical procedures and improving patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateFeb 21, 2024

Uptake of HIV prevention medication doubles with mix of digital health interventions, study finds

A UCLA-led study found that a combination of telehealth coaching, peer support, and automated text messages increased PrEP uptake among younger Americans by more than doubling it. The intervention's success suggests the importance of behavioral interventions and wraparound services in supporting HIV prevention.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 21, 2024

Automated method helps researchers quantify uncertainty in their predictions

Researchers have introduced an optimization technique that accelerates Bayesian inference without requiring extensive user effort. This new automated method achieves more accurate results faster than another popular approach and offers reliable uncertainty estimates to help scientists understand when to trust their predictions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Machine Learning Research·DateFeb 21, 2024

Raised blood pressure is the leading risk factor for death in Australia

A study published in PLOS ONE found that raised blood pressure has been the leading risk factor for death in Australia for three decades, contributing to at least 44% of cardiovascular disease (CVD) deaths. The research highlights the importance of prioritizing blood pressure control efforts in public health agendas.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Novel treatment strategy reduces inflammation and cardiometabolic risk in adolescents with obesity

A one-year interdisciplinary therapy program reduced inflammation and cardiometabolic risk in obese adolescents, improving insulin resistance and weight management. The semi-intensive model produced better results than previous intensive models, reversing hyperlipidemia and promoting energy balance.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateFeb 21, 2024

Families of men with fertility problems show distinct patterns of increased risk for several types of cancer

Men with low sperm count or none have a higher risk of developing cancer, including at younger ages, compared to fertile men. Families of azoospermic men have a significantly increased risk of five cancers, while families of oligozoospermic men have a higher risk of colon, bone and joint, and testicular cancers.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Revealing what makes bacteria life-threatening

Scientists found a mutation in E. coli that allows it to spread further into the body and infect organs, causing life-threatening diseases. The discovery helps explain why certain types of E. coli become more dangerous and provides an explanation for emerging virulent bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Nanoscale manipulation of exciton–trion interconversion in a MoSe2 monolayer via tip-enhanced cavity-spectroscopy

Researchers have developed a novel 'nano active control platform' to control excitons and trions, providing valuable insights into the optical properties of two-dimensional semiconductors. The breakthrough discovery enables real-time analysis of nano-light properties with exceptional spatial resolution.

μkiss-and-tell: A new method for precision delivery of nanoparticles and small molecules to individual cells

Scientists create 'μkiss' technique for precise delivery of materials to individual cells, offering new possibilities in single-cell science and next-generation therapeutic applications. The method provides full control over location, time, and scale of material application, enabling detailed studies of cellular processes.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Science of Light·JournalNature Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2024