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Science News for January 11, 2024


Buck scientists identify how dietary restriction slows brain aging & increases lifespan

Researchers have identified the role of OXR1 in maintaining retromer function, which protects neurons from oxidative damage. Boosting this gene's expression may help extend human lifespan. The study provides potential therapeutic targets to slow brain aging and age-related neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

Synapses brought to the point

Researchers at ISTA investigated the crucial set of synapses between neurons within the cerebellum, uncovering details of their function and development. The study used advanced techniques to look at the inhibitory synapses in great detail, revealing how they delicately influence the cell's signal output.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNeuron·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 11, 2024

Scientists have come up with a technology to recycle used clothes rather than simply burning them

Scientists have developed a technology to recycle used clothes by separating different fibers, which could significantly increase textile recycling rates. The method uses heat and chemicals to break down elastane fibers in mixed fabrics, allowing for the processing of materials that were previously impossible to recycle.

SourceAarhus University·JournalGreen Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

Close encounters of the supermassive black hole kind: tidal disruption events and what they can reveal about black holes and stars in distant galaxies

Researchers analyze tidal disruption events (TDEs) to estimate the properties of supermassive black holes and stars. The CN22 model, proposed by Syracuse University researchers, provides a new way forward for understanding TDEs and their implications for galaxy evolution.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 11, 2024

Towards realizing eco-friendly and high-performance thermoelectric materials

Researchers developed inverse-perovskite-based thermoelectric materials with low lattice thermal conductivity and high power factor, promising eco-friendly alternatives to toxic heavy element-based materials. The materials exhibit high energy conversion efficiency, comparable to toxic elements in the same temperature range.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

Toward efficient spintronic materials

Japanese researchers have revealed a strain-induced orbital control mechanism in interfacial multiferroics, potentially leading to efficient spintronic devices. The team showed the microscopic origin of the large magnetoelectric effect in the material, providing guidelines for designing materials with a large magnetoelectric effect.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNPG Asia Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

HKUST researchers develop a versatile, reconfigurable, and damage-tolerant single-wire sensor array

Researchers from HKUST developed a sensor array design inspired by the human auditory system to optimize application in fields like robotics, aviation, healthcare, and industrial machinery. The design addresses traditional challenges such as complex wiring, limited reconfigurability, and low damage resistance.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

How does social attention develop in autistic children?

Research reveals that autistic children develop their own unique visual preferences for social elements, unlike typically developing children who synchronize their attention on social interactions. Early intervention targeting social attention may help guide autistic children onto developmental courses more akin to their peers.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournaleLife·TypeNews article·DateJan 11, 2024

A single-celled microbe is helping corals survive climate change, study finds

A recent study discovered that certain protists within the coral microbiome can inform scientists about a coral's ability to survive heat stress. The researchers found that parasitic single-celled protists are more common in corals that survive heat-stress, while Corallicolids are more common in corals that die from heat-stress.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

Generative artificial intelligence models effectively highlight social determinants of health in doctors’ notes

Researchers developed AI models that can extract information on social determinants of health from clinicians' notes, identifying 93.8% of patients with adverse social factors. The models were less prone to bias than generalist models, offering a potential solution to address health disparities.

SourceMass General Brigham·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 11, 2024

Guantanamo Bay: 22 years of indefinite detention and eroded human rights

The Guantanamo Bay detention camp has held hundreds of individuals suspected of terrorism without charge or trial for up to 22 years. International human rights organizations have widely condemned the conditions, leading to calls for its closure. The facility's legacy highlights the need to balance security with human rights and dignity.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 11, 2024

Substance use disorders among adult cancer survivors

Adult cancer survivors are at higher risk for substance use disorders (SUD), especially those with certain types of cancer; the study suggests integrated care could benefit these patients. The research highlights the need to address comorbid SUD in cancer populations with high SUD prevalence, prioritizing high-risk cancers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJan 11, 2024

Hollings researchers find Boswellia, an extract of frankincense, shows anti-cancer activity in patients with breast cancer

A clinical trial showed that an extract of Boswellia, a plant used in traditional medicine for centuries, has anti-proliferative effects against breast cancer. The study found a statistically significant reduction in tumor proliferation compared to non-treated patients, suggesting potential anti-cancer activity in humans.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalBreast Cancer Research and Treatment·DateJan 11, 2024

Early study shows health benefits of creative arts therapies and nutrition education for postmenopausal women

A recent study from Drexel University explored an art therapy intervention to address the health needs of overweight, postmenopausal women. The integrated approach showed significant improvements in psychosocial wellbeing, quality of life, and body image, with participants also experiencing decreases in BMI and blood pressure.

SourceDrexel University·JournalArt Therapy·DateJan 11, 2024

High-dose radiotherapy with chemotherapy effective in treating people with non-small cell lung cancer

Researchers found a combination treatment involving high doses of radiation and chemotherapy to be safe and effective in treating locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer. The treatment, which includes an adaptive boost plan, showed promising results in improving progression-free survival and reducing toxic side effects.

Reduced blood lead levels linked to lower blood pressure

Researchers found that small declines in blood lead levels were associated with long-term cardiovascular health improvements, including reductions in systolic blood pressure and markers of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and heart failure. This study suggests that even small decreases in blood lead levels can have meaningful health outcomes.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJan 11, 2024

New Antarctic research shows that Adélie penguins must balance the benefits and costs of riding on sea ice during their long-distance migration

Researchers tracked 87 Adélie penguins using electronic tags, revealing how they interact with sea ice during their long-distance migrations. The study highlights the interconnectedness of species in the Southern Ocean and how climate change may impact Adélie penguin populations.

SourcePoint Blue Conservation Science·JournalEcology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2024

Mount Sinai researchers identify diverse neuron types associated with vulnerability to Parkinson's disease

Researchers discovered a previously unreported neuron type with vulnerability in Parkinson's disease, shedding light on the complexity of the disease and potential therapeutic targets. The study identified distinct transcriptomic signatures of this neuron type and found reduced RIT2 expression in Parkinson's disease patients.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2024

Reflective materials and irrigated trees: study shows how to cool one of the world’s hottest cities by 4.5°C

A new study published in Nature Cities suggests that a combination of cooling technologies and techniques can reduce the temperature of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, by nearly 4.5°C during summer. The strategy involves using highly reflective 'super cool' building materials, irrigated greenery, and energy retrofitting measures.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Cities·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 11, 2024

Early breastfeeding linked to lower risk of childhood obesity, regardless of mother’s weight, NIH study finds

A new NIH study finds that consistently breastfeeding infants in their first three months is associated with a lower risk of childhood obesity, regardless of the mother's pre-pregnancy BMI. The study suggests that health professionals can encourage and promote breastfeeding among all women, especially those who have obesity.

SourceEnvironmental influences on Child Health Outcomes·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2024

In the driver’s seat: study explores how we interact with remote drivers

Researchers studied user perceptions and requirements for remote driving in L4 AVs, highlighting the importance of clear communication and reliable teleoperation systems. The study found that users support remote driving as a failsafe mechanism but raise concerns about cybersecurity, privacy, and performance.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalTransportation Research Part F Traffic Psychology and Behaviour·TypeSurvey·DateJan 11, 2024

KAUST scientists unveil blueprint for affordable solar cells to power Saudi Arabia and beyond

Researchers at KAUST Solar Center have developed a roadmap for commercializing perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells, which combine efficient light absorption and long-term stability. The technology has the potential to meet Saudi Arabia's solar targets and exceed $10 billion in market value within a decade.

How can the brain compete with AI?

Researchers from Bar-Ilan University discover a possible mechanism underlying the brain's efficient shallow learning, enabling it to perform complex classification tasks with similar accuracy as deep learning. The study proposes a wider and higher architecture as a complementary mechanism to deep architectures.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalPhysica A Statistical Mechanics and its Applications·DateJan 11, 2024

Challenging the traditional views on how the brain processes movement and sensation

A study by Fujita Health University researchers unveiled novel insights into the brain's processing of movement and sensation. The findings suggest that signals from motor cortices do not primarily modulate sensory responses in primary sensory cortices, but rather pathways from secondary somatosensory cortex (S2) and sensory thalamus (...

SourceFujita Health University·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

The first assessment of toxic heavy metal pollution in the Southern Hemisphere over the last 2,000 years

An international team of scientists found evidence of ancient heavy metal pollution in Antarctic ice cores from early Andean cultures and Spanish Colonial mining dating back to the 13th century. The study, published in Science of the Total Environment, reveals significant lead and other toxic metals were released into the atmosphere as...

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateJan 11, 2024

Our surprising magnetic galaxy

A team of astronomers created the first-ever 3D map of magnetic field structures within a spiral arm of the Milky Way galaxy, showing that magnetic fields break away from the general picture and impact star-forming regions. The findings suggest that magnetic fields played a role in creating our own solar system.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2024

Team explores role of STING – stimulator of interferon genes – in body’s innate immune system

Researchers provide new insights into STING's function in innate immunity, revealing its role as a scaffold that activates TBK1. They also found that cholesterol plays a crucial role in STING clustering and activation, offering a potential target for treating diseases associated with STING inflammation.

Researchers discover potential microbiome links to skin aging

A study by researchers at University of California - San Diego reveals a connection between the skin microbiome and signs of aging, including crow's feet wrinkles. The analysis found positive associations with diverse skin microbiomes and negative correlations with moisture loss, suggesting potential new directions for skincare solutions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalFrontiers in Aging·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 11, 2024

Loss of executive function may signal onset of neurodegenerative condition FXTAS

Researchers at UC Davis found that men with FMR1 premutation who experienced reduced executive function were at higher likelihood of developing fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome. Executive function challenges, particularly working memory and organization issues, were strongly associated with the development of FXTAS.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalMovement Disorders·DateJan 11, 2024

Pain-based weather forecasts could influence actions

A recent study from the University of Georgia found that over 70% of respondents with chronic pain would alter their daily plans based on weather-based pain forecasts. The study suggests that developing a reliable pain-based weather forecast could help individuals take preventative measures to manage their pain levels.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalInternational Journal of Biometeorology·DateJan 11, 2024

Study finds hospital surfaces can harbor harmful microbes even after routine disinfection

Researchers found microbial contamination on high-touch hospital surfaces, including pathogenic and potentially pathogenic bacteria, in a study published in the American Journal of Infection Control. The study highlights the need for more effective disinfection protocols to reduce healthcare-associated infections.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

Artificial intelligence fails in grammar

A study led by Universitat Rovira i Virgili reveals AI systems struggle to recognize grammatical errors in sentences. Human evaluators train models on correct and incorrect constructions, but these are not learned from negative feedback like in humans.

SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 11, 2024

Between building and unbuilding: An interdisciplinary design approach to cohabitation, material cycles, and traditional ecological knowledge

The 'Lodgers' project in Fly Ranch prioritizes plant and animal well-being, uses local resources to minimize waste, and incorporates Traditional Ecological Knowledge. This approach challenges contemporary architectural practice and offers a response to climate challenges through cohabitation and material cycles.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalLandscape Architecture Frontiers·TypeCase study·DateJan 11, 2024

Revolutionizing real-time data processing with edge computing and reservoir technology

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science develop an edge computing device that processes signals in real time using physical reservoir technology, achieving faster data processing and lower computation costs. The device demonstrates enhanced learning capabilities, making it promising for applications in edge computing.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

Study shows genetically modified pluripotent stem cells may evade immunological rejection after transplantation

Researchers have successfully genetically modified pluripotent stem cells to evade immune recognition, offering a viable path forward for pluripotent stem cell-based therapies. The study's findings suggest that these engineered stem cells could pave the way for new treatments for diseases such as Type 1 diabetes and macular degeneration.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

Ancient cities provide key datasets for urban planning, policy and predictions in the Anthropocene

A new study from the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology highlights the importance of ancient cities in understanding contemporary urban challenges. The research provides numerical datasets on road lengths, building types, population sizes, economic output, and environmental impacts to inform urban planning and policy.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Cities·DateJan 11, 2024

Transparent brain implant can read deep neural activity from the surface

A new transparent brain implant has been developed to read deep neural activity from the surface, providing a step closer to building a minimally invasive brain-computer interface. The technology enables high-resolution data about deep neural activity by using recordings from the brain surface and correlating them with calcium spikes i...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 11, 2024

A universal coronavirus vaccine could save billions of dollars if ready before next pandemic

A new study suggests a universal coronavirus vaccine could have saved millions of lives and prevented suffering by offering some degree of protection against a range of strains. The study found that having a universal vaccine at the start of the pandemic would have been cost-saving even with low efficacy rates.

Cellular clean energy: Can mitochondria make more energy without collateral damage?

A team of scientists used CRISPR to identify genes responsible for energy production and ROS production in mitochondria. Their findings offer a starting point for developing therapies that independently control mitochondrial energy and ROS levels, potentially treating neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 11, 2024

Intriguing insights uncovered for two rare heart muscle diseases

Research from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine sheds light on two rare heart conditions, dilated cardiomyopathy and peripartum cardiomyopathy. The study reveals that truncated titin proteins are present in hearts affected by DCM, indicating a potential link between genetic variants and disease development.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 11, 2024

Optical aspects of quantitative photoacoustic tomography

The review discusses the optical aspects of QPAT, including mathematical models for light propagation and interaction with biological tissues. The authors outline two approaches to estimating chromophore concentrations from absorbed optical energy density data, highlighting the challenges associated with practical implementation, such ...

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateJan 11, 2024

Beaches and dunes globally squeezed by roads and buildings

Researchers found that human infrastructure is generally located very close to the sea, with an average distance of 390 meters from the coastline. Designating nature reserves can help protect beaches and dunes from rising sea levels, flooding, and biodiversity loss. Currently, only 16% of the world's sandy coasts are protected.

SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeSurvey·DateJan 11, 2024

Divergent responses of growth rate and antioxidative system of ten Bacillus strains to acid stresses

Ten Bacillus strains exhibit distinct growth rates and antioxidative systems in response to acidic environments. The study reveals strain-specific differences in the regulation of enzymes and antioxidant reactants, highlighting the heterogeneity of microbial physiological responses to acidification. These findings contribute to our und...

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalSoil Ecology Letters·TypeCase study·DateJan 11, 2024

CD4+ T cell patterns linked to autoimmune disorders

A study published in Cell Genomics reveals that specific changes in CD4+ T cell categories and gene programs are associated with autoimmune diseases, including distinct patterns related to aging and sex. The findings provide a comprehensive catalog of CD4+ T cell changes linked to 20 different autoimmune diseases.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCell Genomics·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2024

Even the oldest eukaryote fossils show dazzling diversity and complexity

Researchers discovered diverse microfossils of ancient eukaryotes, including 10 previously undescribed species, that exhibit complex characteristics like cell walls made of bound fibers and tiny trapdoors. These findings suggest that early eukaryotes were already diverse and advanced, with some evidence pointing to an aerobic metabolism.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPapers in Palaeontology·DateJan 11, 2024

Novel PET tracer enhances lesion detection in medullary thyroid cancer, offers potential for targeted therapy

A novel PET imaging agent has been found to effectively identify medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) in preclinical and clinical studies. The compound demonstrates favorable tumor uptake and improved activity clearance from off-target tissues, potentially enhancing lesion detection and enabling targeted MTC radioligand therapy.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJan 11, 2024

A noninvasive method for assessing muscular health in an aging population

A noninvasive method for assessing muscular health in an aging population has been developed using bioelectrical impedance analysis. The study found that the phase angle can estimate muscle contractile properties and is associated with better muscle function, making it a valuable tool for monitoring muscular health.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2024

ACIP releases 2024 Adult Immunization Schedule featuring four new vaccines

The 2024 adult immunization schedule features four new vaccines, including the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, mpox vaccine, a new MenACWY-MenB combo vaccine, and updated versions of the COVID-19 vaccine. Clinicians stress the need for effective communication strategies to increase vaccine uptake among skeptical patients.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateJan 11, 2024

Generating stable qubits at room temperature

Scientists achieve room-temperature quantum coherence by embedding a chromophore in a metal-organic framework, enabling the creation of quintet state qubits with four electron spins. This breakthrough could lead to the development of multiple qubit systems at room temperature, revolutionizing quantum computing and sensing.

SourceKyushu University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

Protein complex discovered to control DNA repair

A team of scientists has identified a previously unrecognized control point in DNA repair processes, which could lead to novel cancer therapies by inhibiting the repair of damaged cancer cells. The newly discovered GSE1-CoREST complex contains three enzymes that control DNA repair and may form the basis for improved cancer treatments.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJan 11, 2024

New University of Limerick, Ireland study reveals high prevalence of anaemia with low rates of screening

A new study by researchers at University of Limerick reveals high rates of anaemia in the Irish health system, while screening for common causes was found to be low. The study found that over 12% of patients had anaemia, with elderly patients and those with underlying medical conditions being particularly affected.

SourceUniversity of Limerick·JournalBJGP Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 11, 2024

Comprehensive assessment reveals high extinction risks for thousands of Atlantic Forest trees in eastern South America

A comprehensive assessment reveals that roughly two-thirds of Atlantic Forest tree species are threatened with extinction, including 82% of endemic species. The study suggests that conservation efforts may need to be revised due to the high extinction risks for tropical forests worldwide.

More than skin deep: A molecular look at the mechanisms behind pigmentation variation

A new study reveals key insights into the molecular basis of skin color variations among African populations, providing a better understanding of human evolution and local adaptation. The research identifies crucial regulatory variants near MITF, LEF1, and TRPS1 that contribute to skin color adaptation in the San population.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2024

Understanding healthy and happy expectancy in former soviet countries

Researchers found that populations in Central Asian countries have significantly higher healthy and happy life expectancies compared to Russians, despite lower socioeconomic development. This challenges the understanding of health and raises questions about contributing factors to healthier lives in these communities.

SourceSophia University·JournalPopulation Research and Policy Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 11, 2024

New insights into what helps Salmonella cause infections

Researchers have discovered how the TamAB system helps Salmonella survive under harsh conditions inside macrophages. The study found that TamAB creates favorable conditions for the Bam complex to work, but the exact mechanism is unclear. Understanding this process could help in developing treatments for Salmonella infections.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

Study reveals wastewater surveillance is key tool in keeping schools open during public health emergencies

A recent study published in PLOS Global Public Health reveals wastewater surveillance is a crucial tool for understanding COVID-19 transmission in schools. The research found high sensitivity and correlation between SARS-CoV-2 RNA levels in wastewater and COVID-19 cases, highlighting its potential in managing public health responses.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2024

Experiments in infant mice suggest new way to prevent spread of flu in people

Researchers have identified a new strategy to combat the seasonal flu by targeting sialic acids in the upper respiratory tract of infants. Using desialylated neuraminidase enzymes, they reduced mouse-to-mouse transmission rates of influenza A by over half, suggesting potential benefits for preventing flu spread in children.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalmBio·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024