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Science News for January 24, 2024


How does climate change affect eczema?

A recent study published in Allergy found that climate change has negative effects on atopic dermatitis, including increased inflammation from air pollution and stress from droughts. The researchers called for further research to address the impact of multiple climatic factors on eczema incidence and prevalence.

SourceWiley·JournalAllergy·DateJan 24, 2024

The more the merrier: Research shows online interventions with social support help middle-aged adults with obesity lose weight

A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Mansoo Yu found that online weight loss interventions with counseling and social support are effective for middle-aged adults with obesity. The study identified two key features: professional health coaching and access to social support from other users, which led to significant long-...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Prevention·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 24, 2024

Furry fruit improves mental health – fast

A study published in The British Journal of Nutrition found that kiwifruit supplementation improved vitality and mood within four days, peaking around 14-16 days. Vitamin C intake also showed benefits, but to a lesser extent, improving mood until day 12.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateJan 24, 2024

Death rate higher than expected for patients with functional, nonepileptic seizures

A Michigan Medicine-led study found that patients with functional seizures have a death rate almost 2.5 times higher than expected, comparable to epilepsy and serious mental health conditions. The study highlights the need for improved access to holistic, multidisciplinary treatment for functional neurological disorders.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNeurology Clinical Practice·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 2024

Recovering lossless propagation: HKU physicists overcoming optical loss in polariton system with synthetic complex frequency waves

A research team led by HKU physicists has introduced a solution to address optical loss in polariton propagation using synthetic complex frequency waves. This approach enables more efficient light-based devices, improved accuracy in sensors and imaging techniques, and enhanced nanophotonic circuits.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

Galápagos penguin is exposed to and may accumulate microplastics at high rate within its food web, modelling suggests

A study in PLOS ONE suggests that Galápagos penguins may accumulate microplastics at a high rate within their food web, with the excretion rate playing a key role. The research uses modeling to simulate microplastic movement through the Galápagos penguin ecosystem and highlights the potential for biomagnification across trophic levels.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 24, 2024

Alarming levels of persistent chemical (PFAS) contamination found in small coastal ecosystems, urgent action needed

A new study reveals high concentrations of PFAS in micro-estuaries, posing significant risks to the environment and human health. The research emphasizes the need for targeted environmental management strategies to protect these critical ecosystems.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 2024

Pusan National University's breakthrough in muscle regeneration: Nanotech scaffolding supports tissue growth

Researchers develop nanofibrous matrices containing MXene nanoparticles to aid in muscle regeneration. The study reveals molecular mechanisms behind the effects of MXene nanoparticles on muscle growth, suggesting a promising avenue for treating volumetric muscle loss and muscle-related ailments.

SourcePusan National University·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

Do different plant-based diets affect pregnancy and birth outcomes?

Women following vegan diets during pregnancy may face increased risks of preeclampsia and lower birth weights compared to omnivorous mothers. A recent study found that micronutrient intake was lower among vegans but no major differences were observed when supplements were considered.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateJan 24, 2024

A virus that infected the first animals hundreds of millions of years ago has become essential for the development of the embryo

Researchers discover a virus, MERVL, plays a critical role in embryonic development by regulating gene expression and ensuring smooth transition from totipotency to pluripotency. This finding has significant implications for regenerative medicine and artificial embryo creation.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

Women and people of color remain “invisible” as most people pick white men as their heroes, study shows

A study found that most people in Britain and the USA choose white men as their heroes, with women and people of color often being overlooked. Only 1 in 4 Britons and 1 in 5 Americans said they had a heroine, highlighting a persistent gap between prominent white male heroes and forgotten heroines.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Journal of Politics Culture and Society·TypeSurvey·DateJan 24, 2024

UCF Rosen College study reveals economic impact of Florida’s red tide on tourism

A new UCF study found that the 2018 Florida red tide bloom caused $2.7 billion in losses to tourism-related businesses, with low concentrations having a significant economic impact. The research highlights the importance of risk management tools for individuals and businesses affected by harmful algae blooms.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 24, 2024

Gene behind heart defects in Down syndrome identified

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute and UCL have identified a gene that causes heart defects in Down syndrome, a condition resulting from an extra copy of chromosome 21. Reducing the overactivity of this gene partially reversed these defects in mice, setting the scene for potential future therapies.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

Infants born to COVID-infected mothers have triple the risk of developing respiratory distress

A new study finds that infants born full-term to mothers infected with COVID-19 during pregnancy are three times more likely to develop respiratory distress compared to uninfected infants. Vaccination prior to infection was found to be protective, reducing the risk by half.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 2024

Atmospheric pressure changes could be driving Mars’ elusive methane pulses

Researchers simulated how methane travels through underground fractures and is released into the atmosphere, predicting pulses just before Martian sunrise in the northern summer season. This corroborates previous rover data suggesting daily methane level fluctuations. The study informs the Curiosity rover's ongoing sampling campaign.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 24, 2024

Simple steps can cut snakebite deaths

A new study finds that most people take steps to prevent snakebites, but the measures taken don't always reflect evidence-based advice. Promoting locally practical methods could save many lives, especially in rural areas where snakes are more common.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateJan 24, 2024

Mass General Brigham study highlights varied risk of persistent COVID-19 infection among immunocompromised patients

Researchers found that patients with severe immunosuppression, such as those with hematologic malignancies or organ transplants, were most likely to have chronic, prolonged infections. In contrast, patients with mild immunosuppression had similar viral shedding dynamics to non-immunocompromised participants.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 24, 2024

People with suicidal thoughts help each other through tough times

Researchers found that people with suicidal thoughts use closed peer groups on Danish social media to navigate the healthcare system and receive emotional support. These online communities provide a safe space for individuals to share their struggles and connect with others who understand their experiences.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalMental Health & Prevention·TypeCase study·DateJan 24, 2024

A study of how Americans die may improve their end of life

Researchers at Rutgers University analyzed Medicare records to identify nine distinct end-of-life care trajectories among older Americans. The study found that nearly all patients followed one of these paths in their last three years of life, with significant variations by sociodemographic and health-related factors.

SourceRutgers University·JournalBMC Geriatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 24, 2024

Women farm owners more apt to binge drink

A study by University of Georgia researchers found female farmers report higher levels of stress and are more likely to binge drink when they do consume alcohol. The pattern holds true for those who own or manage farms, where women face unique challenges in male-dominated industries.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJan 24, 2024

New pieces in the puzzle of first life on Earth

Researchers have uncovered evidence of complex microbial communities existing in ecosystems over 3 billion years ago, with a diverse carbon cycle involving various microorganisms. The study provides a rare glimpse into the Earth's early ecosystems and advances our understanding of ancient microbial ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalPrecambrian Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

New study unveils how plants control the production of reactive oxygen species

A recent study by Tokyo University of Science researchers has uncovered the mechanisms by which plants regulate the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The findings, published in Physiologia Plantarum, reveal that ROS-generating enzymes are activated through two conserved mechanisms involving calcium ions and phosphorylation, ...

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalPhysiologia Plantarum·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

New study assesses long term risk of invasive breast cancer after pre-invasive disease

A recent study published in The BMJ found that women diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) outside the NHS breast screening programme are four times more likely to develop invasive breast cancer and die from breast cancer. The increased risk lasts for at least 25 years after diagnosis, suggesting longer-term monitoring is needed.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 2024

The costly, unintended consequences produced by the National Flood Insurance Program

A new study finds that NFIP insurance adoption leads to a significant increase in population growth in high-flood-risk areas. The authors estimate that the program contributes to 5% more population per standard deviation increase in historical flood risk, resulting in higher damages from disasters like Hurricane Katrina and Harvey.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of the Association of Environmental and Resource Economists·DateJan 24, 2024

Most clean power purchasing strategies do little to cut emissions, study finds

A Princeton-led study found that most common clean energy procurement strategies are ineffective in reducing long-term emissions in the US. However, one approach called temporal matching can have a substantial effect when companies purchase clean energy hourly to match their real-time energy consumption.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalJoule·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 24, 2024

AA attendance lower among African American, Hispanic and young populations

A new study found that African Americans, Hispanics/Latinx, and young adults are less likely to attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings compared to White counterparts. The study also found that these disparities have persisted despite the evolution of AA and the availability of alternative mutual-help groups.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·TypeSurvey·DateJan 24, 2024

Breakthrough technology offers promising treatment for ischemic retinopathy

Researchers develop technology that alleviates retinal pathologies by targeting mitochondrial chaperone TRAP1, which is implicated in the breakdown of blood-retinal barrier and pathological neovascularization. This treatment approach holds great promise for revolutionizing the treatment landscape for ischemic retinopathy.

Contrasting characteristics and outcomes of sports-related and non–sports-related traumatic brain injury

This study found that sports-related traumatic brain injuries (TBI) result in higher rates of functional limitations six months after injury. In contrast, patients with non-sports related TBI exhibit better mental health and post-concussion symptom recovery. The findings highlight the need for a more nuanced understanding of TBI outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 24, 2024

Study explains why protein-poor diet during pregnancy increases risk of prostate cancer in offspring

Researchers at São Paulo State University found a link between a protein-poor diet during pregnancy and an increased risk of prostate cancer in offspring. The study detected changes in the expression of over 700 genes in offspring, including the gene ABCG1, which is associated with prostate cancer.

Paper provides a clearer picture of severe hydro hazards

A recent study examines the frequency of compound drought and pluvial flooding, as well as their reverse patterns, finding that 15.46% of meteorological droughts are succeeded by a pluvial the following season globally, with regional variability existing in Eurasia, western North America, South Asia, and Australia.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalWater Resources Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 24, 2024

Gene therapy restores hearing in children with hereditary deafness

A novel gene therapy has been shown to restore hearing function in six children with DFNB9, a form of autosomal recessive deafness. The treatment, which uses an adeno-associated virus carrying a version of the human OTOF gene, demonstrated significant improvements in speech perception and ability to conduct normal conversation.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalThe Lancet·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

A pathway to environmental restoration: Sustainable strategies for cesium removal from radioactive wastewater

Cesium removal from radioactive wastewater is a challenging task due to the complex chemical nature of cesium and sheer volume of contaminated water. Recent studies have explored various methods, including adsorption and membrane separation, which show promise for effective treatment with low environmental impact.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

Exposure to flame retardants linked to premature birth, higher birth weight

A large study found that exposure to organophosphate ester flame retardants during pregnancy was associated with preterm birth, especially among female newborns. Higher birth weight was also linked to increased obesity risk. The chemicals are widely used in building materials, furniture, and electronics.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 2024

Finding the right diagnosis with liver biopsy

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology found that liver biopsy was essential to making the correct diagnosis in over a third of cases. Biopsy was particularly valuable in diagnosing autoimmune hepatitis and was also used to diagnose liver fibrosis more than two-thirds of the time.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Clinical Gastroenterology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 2024

Centralized social networks potentially hinder innovation by making decision-making too similar

A study by researchers at the University of Sydney and Stockholm University found that centralized social networks can lead to a culture of homogeneity, where innovative voices are crowded out and traditionalist practices prevail. This can have significant consequences for the environment and global food security.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalPeople and Nature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 24, 2024

Water self-purification achieved via electron donation: Novel catalyst enables sustainable wastewater treatment

A novel self-purifying water treatment system uses CoFe quantum dots to remove over 70% of emerging contaminants from wastewater within two hours. The system harnesses internal energy for purification, operating at ambient temperature and pressure without external oxidants.

SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·DateJan 24, 2024

Disinformation can reinforce polarization in society

New research from Aalto University reveals how disinformation and conspiracy theories persist despite external threats, bridging partisan divides only when shared democratic norms are condemned. The study found that social bubbles built on disinformation can be difficult to break, even in the face of dramatic events.

SourceAalto University·JournalEPJ Data Science·TypeContent analysis·DateJan 24, 2024

A new design improves water decontamination via plasma jet

Researchers at the University of Córdoba designed a new plasma reactor that generates reactive species capable of degrading organic compounds and killing microorganisms in water. The new configuration expands the applicability of this type of plasmas, enabling efficient removal of high concentrations of dyes from water in minutes.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalChemosphere·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

Lights, detector, action!

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a novel method for quantum infrared spectroscopy, generating a wider range of infrared photons with improved sensitivity. This breakthrough enables compact, high-performance scanners for various applications in environmental monitoring, medicine, and security.

SourceKyoto University·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

Retinal imaging and genetics data used to predict future disease risk

A study combines retinal imaging, genetics, and big data to estimate the likelihood of developing eye and systemic diseases. The researchers identified significant associations between retinal layer thickness and increased risk of various diseases, including ocular, neuropsychiatric, cardiac, metabolic, and pulmonary diseases.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 24, 2024

Researchers suggest changing gold standard of spine surgery from operative microscope to 3D exoscope

A recent study published in World Neurosurgery found that the use of a 3D exoscope in spinal surgery resulted in more favorable outcomes for patients, including shorter hospital stays and operating room times. The device allows for increased visualization during procedures, leading to fewer errors and better patient outcomes.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalWorld Neurosurgery·DateJan 24, 2024

Harnessing skin cancer genes to heal hearts

Researchers at Duke University successfully introduced a mutated BRAF gene into rat heart tissue, inducing growth and cell division. However, the approach was associated with significant loss of contractile strength, highlighting the need for precise control over gene activation and delivery.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

DNA from preserved feces reveals ancient Japanese gut environment

Researchers analyzed ancient fecal samples to assess what details of the ancient people's lives could be ascertained from these samples. The study found DNA fragments of human betaherpesvirus 5, adenovirus F, and other viral and bacterial genetic material from thousands of years ago.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 2024

North China fossils show eukaryotes first acquired multicellularity 1.63 billion years ago

The discovery of 1.63-billion-year-old multicellular fossils from North China reveals that eukaryotes acquired simple multicellularity approximately 1.05 billion years ago. This finding supports the early appearance of the last eukaryotic common ancestor in the late Paleoproterozoic, consistent with molecular clock studies.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 24, 2024

Chemistry professor R. Graham Cooks expands research of water droplet interfaces that offer the secret ingredient for building life

Researchers have found that the key step to protein formation can occur in droplets of pure water, where amino acids connect to form peptides with the same 'L' handedness. The discovery resolves a paradox and provides new insights into the early stages of life's chemical evolution.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 24, 2024

Misinformation and irresponsible AI - experts forecast how technology may shape our near future

A study by Lancaster University forecasts exponential growth in Artificial Intelligence over the next 15 years, with experts warning of corners being cut in safe AI development. The experts also predict that advances in technology will make it harder to distinguish truth from fiction, with potential ramifications for democracies.

SourceLancaster University·JournalComputer·TypeSurvey·DateJan 24, 2024

Discovering the optimal combination of anticancer drug administration for the conditioning of cord blood transplantation

Researchers discovered that combining fludarabine, melphalan, and low-dose total-body irradiation offers the best survival rate and lowest relapse rate in cord blood transplantation for myeloid malignancies. The study analyzed data from 1395 cases and found fewer deaths from infection with this combination.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalAmerican Journal of Hematology·DateJan 24, 2024

Risk of death during heatwaves in Brazil linked to socioeconomic factors

A new study found that heatwaves in Brazil are disproportionately affecting female, elderly, Black, Brown, and low-education individuals, resulting in a staggering 48,075 deaths between 2000 and 2018. The research highlights the need for targeted efforts to reduce mortality rates during future heatwaves.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 2024