Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 26, 2024


Astronomers detect an extremely red supermassive black hole in the early universe growing in the shadows

A team of astronomers has detected a gravitationally lensed supermassive black hole in the early universe, which was found to be significantly more massive than its host galaxy. The discovery, made using images from the James Webb Space Telescope, revealed the black hole's unique red color and confirmed it as a supermassive black hole.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2024

University of Cincinnati research examines chronic sinusitis

Researchers from the University of Cincinnati found that nearly half of patients with nasal allergies also have chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), a condition often misdiagnosed as allergies. The study suggests that specific counseling and education are needed to raise awareness of CRS, especially in regions with high prevalence of environm...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalOtolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Healthcare leaders plea to reinstate the Canadian hypertension control program to prevent death and disability

Canadian healthcare leaders call for re-establishment of a national hypertension control program to reduce deaths and disabilities. The program aims to provide population-scale prevention methods, proven to save lives and reduce healthcare costs. Experts highlight the need for collaboration with governments and healthcare providers.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 26, 2024

BU researchers identify potential new subtype of chronic traumatic encephalopathy

Researchers found one in six individuals with high-stage CTE had low tau pathology in the neocortex, but higher concentrations in the medial temporal lobe and brainstem. This form, called cortical-sparing CTE, may be a distinct subtype with different underlying biology and clinical implications.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalActa Neuropathologica·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2024

Novel material increases efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells

Researchers at São Paulo State University developed a method to enhance perovskite solar cells using MXene Ti3C2Tx, increasing power conversion efficiency by 15% and stability by three times. This breakthrough has promising implications for large-scale industrial production of stable high-performance solar cells.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry C·DateFeb 26, 2024

Reimagining electron microscopy: Bringing high-end resolution to lower-cost microscopes

Scientists have developed a new technique called electron ptychography that boosts the resolution of electron microscopes using computation, allowing for record-breaking resolution without expensive aberration correctors. This breakthrough enables state-of-the-art resolution at a fraction of the cost, making microscopy more accessible.

The effects of primer pairs, PCR conditions, and peptide nucleic acid clamps on plant root fungal diversity assessment

This study evaluates the combined effects of primer pairs, PCR conditions and PNA clamps on fungal community diversity in plant roots. The results show that primer pairs are critical for limiting DNA co-amplification and that certain primer pairs outperform others in terms of richness and diversity.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalMycology: An International Journal on Fungal Biology·DateFeb 26, 2024

Live music emotionally moves us more than streamed music

A recent study conducted at the University of Zurich found that live performances stimulate a stronger emotional response in the brain compared to listening to recorded music. The researchers used magnetic resonance imaging to measure brain activity during both live and recorded music sessions, revealing a significant difference in amy...

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

BU researchers describe new technological platform to accelerate drug development

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine describe a new technological platform that enhances the accuracy and efficiency of drug discovery related to GPCRs. The biosensors can detect the activity of GPCRs in their native cellular context and in real time, allowing for unprecedented fidelity and relative ease.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Five grand challenges for the future at the interface of engineering and medicine

Researchers identify five grand challenges in biomedical engineering to address social needs, existing gaps, and technological limitations. The Convergence Revolution and Fourth Industrial Revolution are expected to shape the future of medicine, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaborations and next-generation training.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalIEEE Open Journal of Engineering in Medicine and Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 26, 2024

Study reveals typical growth patterns for children with Fanconi anemia

A new study has created specific growth charts for children with Fanconi anemia, showing that they tend to be shorter and thinner than other children. The researchers found that boys with the condition have average heights at the lower end of the general population curve, while girls have average heights but variable weights.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2024

When plants are attacked

Researchers uncover the role of tiny enzyme DGK5 in triggering a burst of PA, which regulates plant immune response and reactive oxygen species production. This discovery sheds light on plant immunity mechanisms and opens up future research into lipids involved in immune signaling.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCell·DateFeb 26, 2024

Metal scar found on cannibal star

Researchers have discovered a unique signature of planetary material ingestion on the surface of a white dwarf star, WD 0816-310. The team observed a concentration of metals imprinted on the star's surface, indicating that the magnetic field played a key role in this process.

SourceESO·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 26, 2024

A new theoretical development clarifies water's electronic structure

Researchers from EPFL have made significant strides in deciphering the electronic structure of water using computational methods that go beyond current approaches. The study accurately determines water's ionization potential, electron affinity, and band gap, essential for understanding its interactions with light and substances.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2024

Scientists assemble a richer picture of the plight and resilience of the foothill yellow-legged frog

Researchers mapped disease dynamics in foothill yellow-legged frogs, tracing patterns of infection across a large geographic range. The study found that drought, rising temperatures, and agricultural land conversion drive Bd infection, with the pathogen affecting nearly entire region from southern coast to central Oregon.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateFeb 26, 2024

Demystifying “black box” audio models

Explainable AI methods have been developed to make audio models more interpretable and transparent. Researchers categorize existing audio XAI methods into two groups: general methods and audio-specific methods, offering new possibilities for improving the trustworthiness of AI decision-making in audio tasks.

SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·DateFeb 26, 2024

HKU chemists pave the way for sustainable organic synthesis with innovative heterogeneous copper photocatalysis, enabling efficient production of diverse bioactive compounds

HKU chemists have developed a novel heterogeneous copper photocatalyst that enables the efficient formation of cyclobutane rings, a crucial structural element in pharmaceuticals and biologically active compounds. The new catalyst exhibits high stability and recyclability, making it more economically and environmentally sustainable.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Metal in glitter impairs aquatic plant growth, study shows

A study found that glitter's metal coating reduces light penetration, impairing photosynthesis of Large-flowered waterweed Egeria densa and affecting aquatic plant growth. The experiment showed a significant decrease in photosynthesis rates with the presence of glitter, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNew Zealand Journal of Botany·DateFeb 26, 2024

Stone Age strategy for avoiding inbreeding

A new study from Uppsala University found that Stone Age hunter-gatherer communities in Western Europe deliberately formed distinct families to avoid inbreeding and maintain genetic diversity. The research analyzed the genomes of several individuals buried at iconic sites in France, dating back to around 6,700 years ago.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2024

New discovery suggests significant glacial retreat in West Antarctica began in 1940s

A new study suggests that the Thwaites Glacier and Pine Island Glacier began experiencing significant glacial retreat in the 1940s, driven by an extreme El Niño climate pattern. This finding corroborates previous research on ice sheet dynamics and highlights the importance of external factors in controlling glacier behavior.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Pore evolution secrets revealed: new study unlocks additive manufacturing potential

A new study has unlocked the secrets of pore evolution in directed energy deposition (DED) additive manufacturing, revealing five distinct processes that contribute to their behavior. The findings provide a detailed understanding of how pores form, move, and interact within the melt pool during DED, enabling targeted strategies to mini...

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 26, 2024

Detroit research team to develop novel strategies to identify genetic contributions to cancer risk and overcome barriers to genetic testing for African Americans

A team of researchers from Wayne State University and the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute have received a five-year, $9.6 million grant to improve the identification and clinical management of hereditary and multiple primary cancers in African Americans. The study aims to overcome barriers to genetic testing in this population.

A moonshot for obesity: New molecules, inspired by space shuttles, advance lipid nanoparticle delivery for weight control

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science have invented a new way to synthesize key components of lipid nanoparticles, simplifying their manufacture while boosting efficacy. The new method involves combining three chemicals to create branched lipidoids that promote mRNA delivery to target c...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Study shows news organizations still lead in sharing difficult information on social media

A new study shows that despite the rise of community orgs, news outlets still dominate discussions on tough topics like racism and health disparities. Researchers analyzed over 1,250 Facebook posts from various organizations, finding that only 14.5% mentioned the pandemic and 2.5% racism/Black Lives Matter.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalThe Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 26, 2024

Intervention reduces likelihood of developing postpartum anxiety and depression by more than 70%

A large clinical trial found that an intervention for pregnant women in Pakistan significantly reduced the likelihood of developing moderate-to-severe anxiety and depression after birth. The intervention, led by Dr. Pamela J. Surkan, was administered by non-specialized providers and showed promising results.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 26, 2024

Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis articles provide novel insights into previously unknown disease mechanisms

Researchers decode underlying mechanisms of DCM, hippocampal neurotoxicity, and dysbiosis mediated AD progression using mass spectrometry imaging. The studies found metabolic changes in DCM rat hearts and regulation of CYPs in the hippocampus, providing new perspectives on treatment strategies.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Want to encourage allyship? Highlight its appreciation, research shows

A new study from Washington University in St. Louis found that advantaged group members, especially men and white people, often underestimate the appreciation for their allyship efforts. However, when they realize how much it is appreciated, they are more likely to engage in these behaviors. The research suggests that highlighting awar...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 26, 2024

Steering and accelerating electrons at the microchip scale

Stanford researchers have successfully accelerated and steered electrons at the microchip scale using silicon dielectric laser accelerators. This breakthrough enables the creation of tiny linear accelerators that could rival larger systems, with potential applications in medical treatments such as targeted cancer therapies.

SourceStanford University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 26, 2024

UK cancer treatment falls behind other countries

Two new studies reveal that UK cancer patients face long waits for chemotherapy and radiotherapy, leading to poorer outcomes. The research highlights the need for a strategic approach to addressing treatment variation and improving cancer services in the UK.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2024

Race, racism, and covid-19 in the US: lessons not learn

The article argues that US covid-19 outcomes are disproportionately affected by systemic racism and economic inequality. The authors suggest strategies for improving health equity, including anti-racist action, separating health insurance from employment, and rethinking vaccine distribution.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 26, 2024

The surprising benefits of unconsciously remembering things

A new study found that unconscious reminders can strengthen memory, particularly when recalling associations between words and images. Unlike conscious reminders, which can lead to retrieval-induced forgetting, unconscious prompts facilitate a more nuanced process of memory consolidation.

SourceColumbia University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Yoga provides unique cognitive benefits to older women at risk of Alzheimer’s disease, study finds

A UCLA Health study suggests Kundalini yoga can improve cognitive function, memory and brain health for postmenopausal women. The study found that yoga prevented brain matter decline, reversed aging and inflammation-associated biomarkers – improvements not seen in a group who received standard memory training exercises.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 26, 2024

New clinical practice guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for immunotherapy for inhalant allergy

The American Academy of Otolaryngology has released a new clinical practice guideline supporting clinicians with evidence-based recommendations on immunotherapy for inhalant allergies. The guideline provides 12 key action statements to guide treatment, aiming to optimize patient care and reduce unnecessary variation in management.

Birth outcomes improve in states that extend driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants, research finds

Research from Washington University in St. Louis found that states allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver's licenses are associated with improved birth outcomes, particularly for babies born to Mexican and Central American immigrants. Birth weights increased, and preterm birth rates declined in these states compared to those...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Carbon nanotube Eye: reconstruction of inner hidden composition & structure of inspection targets

A research group at Chuo University developed a novel non-destructive inspection technique combining multi-functional photo monitoring devices with image data-driven three-dimensional restoration methods. The technique precisely evaluates target objects by compositional identifications and structural reconstructions, providing a breakt...

SourceChuo University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Simple measurement can predict risk of worsening of widespread kidney disease

A team of researchers from Aarhus University has developed a simple measurement of protein in the urine that can predict which individuals are at high risk of rapid progression of chronic kidney disease. The study found that patients with newly diagnosed mild to moderate chronic kidney disease within three years have a 15% risk of rapi...

SourceAarhus University·JournalNephrology Dialysis Transplantation·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Poison center calls for ‘magic mushrooms’ spiked after decriminalization, study finds

Calls to US poison centers involving psilocybin among teens and young adults tripled and doubled, respectively, after decriminalization, leading to alarming concern over potential long-term consequences. Most calls involved intentional consumption, with adverse reactions including hallucinations, agitation, and heart rate issues.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2024

May I have a quick word? Study shows talking faster is linked to better brain health as we age

A new study by Baycrest and the University of Toronto suggests that talking speed is a more important indicator of brain health than difficulty finding words. Changes in general talking speed may reflect changes in the brain, indicating its importance in detecting cognitive decline faster.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalAging Neuropsychology and Cognition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Anti-vaccine conspiracies fuel divisive political discourse

A new study reveals that online political engagement and conspiracy theories played key roles in shaping Japanese anti-vaccine sentiments. Long-term anti-vaxxers tended to lean left, while those brought into the fold during the pandemic exhibited weaker interest and frequent references to spirituality.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Computational Social Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2024

A new, comprehensive roadmap for the future of biomedical engineering

A new roadmap has been published by IEEE EMBS, outlining five primary medical challenges that need to be addressed through advanced biomedical engineering approaches. The paper, written by 50 renowned researchers from 34 prestigious universities, aims to guide future research and funding for groundbreaking innovations.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalIEEE Open Journal of Engineering in Medicine and Biology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Researchers overestimate their own honesty

A study by Linköping University researchers found that most scientists believe they are better than average at following good research practices. However, the results also show that researchers tend to overestimate their own ethical behavior, which can lead to polarization in the research world and hinder interdisciplinary collaboration.

SourceLinköping University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 26, 2024

Vanishing forests and suffering children: The hidden toll of deforestation in Cambodia

A new study reveals that deforestation in Cambodia is linked to poor health outcomes in children and pregnant women, with increased risk of malaria, malnutrition, and stunting. The research highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to mitigate malaria infections among pregnant females in deforestation-prone areas.

SourceSophia University·JournalEconomics & Human Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2024

Gut-brain communication turned on its axis

Researchers at Flinders University uncovered a major breakthrough in understanding the gut-brain axis, revealing that serotonin released from gut cells must communicate via diffusion to activate sensory nerve endings. This discovery has profound implications for drug development and treatments of mental health and digestive problems.

SourceFlinders University·JournalCell and Tissue Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Is it possible to predict when prejudice will occur?

A new predictive model of prejudice has been developed by researchers at McGill University and the University of Toronto. The equation Prejudice = Threat – Contact + Identification shows that the model is currently around 50 to 60 per cent accurate, with potential for improvement over time.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPsychological Review·DateFeb 26, 2024

Cannabis use policies are on the rise yet treatment for cannabis use disorder treatment remains low

A new study found that specialty treatment for cannabis use disorder decreased in states with medical and recreational cannabis laws, despite a growing need for treatment. The study suggests that public education and access to evidence-based services are needed to address the unmet treatment needs of people with CUD.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateFeb 26, 2024

A novel method for easy and quick fabrication of biomimetic robots with life-like movement

Researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology developed an ultraviolet laser-processing technique for fabricating complex microstructures, enabling the creation of biohybrid actuators capable of complex, flexible movements. The method involves forming curved microgrooves on a substrate and aligning muscle cells in an anisotropic manne...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalBiofabrication·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

What will it take for China to reach carbon neutrality by 2060?

A new study suggests China will need to build eight to ten times more wind and solar power installations than in 2022 to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. The report also highlights the importance of coordinating land use policies nationwide, with a focus on areas within 100 miles of major population centers.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 26, 2024

First-in-humans discovery reveals brain chemicals at work influencing social behavior

Researchers have discovered a previously unknown neurochemical mechanism behind human tendency to make decisions based on social context. The study reveals the dynamic interactions of dopamine and serotonin in the brain's substantia nigra area, which contribute to our brain's overall assessment of value during social interactions.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

New baby sleep planner tool could help save babies lives at risk of sudden infant death

A new web-based baby sleep planner tool, developed by researchers at the University of Bristol, has been shown to improve the uptake of life-saving advice for families with infants at increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome. The tool provides a baby's SUDI risk assessment at birth and a downloadable sleep plan for families.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJMIR Pediatrics and Parenting·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Neuropsychiatric symptoms predict which patients with mild cognitive impairment develop Alzheimer’s disease.

Medical University of South Carolina researchers report that worsened anxiety and depression can predict the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The study found that patients with more severe neuropsychiatric symptoms were more likely to progress from mild cognitive impairment to full-blown Alzheimer's disease.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Can hunger be eradicated by 2030?

A new study at McGill University suggests that international food assistance systems are not designed to eradicate hunger by 2030. The authors argue that a paradigm shift is needed in the existing systems, prioritizing a human-rights based approach over the dominant discourse on trade regimes.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of International Trade Law and Policy·DateFeb 26, 2024

Black carbon sensor could fill massive monitoring gaps

A new portable sensor has been found to accurately measure black carbon concentrations as well as a regulatory standard sensor, filling a massive gap in air quality monitoring. The sensor's portability and affordability make it suitable for remote or inaccessible sites, allowing for more comprehensive data collection.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalSensors·DateFeb 26, 2024