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Science News for January 25, 2024


How to shift gears in a molecular motor

Scientists at Linköping University have successfully developed molecular gears with controlled rotary motion, overcoming previous challenges of single bond rotation. This breakthrough paves the way for future applications in medical drug delivery and solar energy storage.

SourceLinköping University·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 25, 2024

Bystander support is crucial for tackling anti-social behaviour – new research

New research highlights the importance of bystander support in preventing norm erosion and addressing anti-social behaviour. By stepping up to support someone who is confronting poor behaviour, bystanders can send a strong message that such behaviour is unacceptable, helping to prevent its toleration in society.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalBritish Journal of Social Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2024

IPK researchers elucidate the variability and adaptability of internode elongation in barley

IPK researchers discovered a universal pattern of internode elongation in barley, dividing the main axis into three subzones. The study identified genetic loci affecting internode length, including the flowering time gene PHOTOPERIOD1, and found that shorter proximal internodes are associated with higher floral organ survival.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJan 25, 2024

Machine learning model identifies waters protected under different interpretations of the U.S. Clean Water Act

A new machine learning model helps clarify which waters are protected from pollution under the US Clean Water Act, depending on a court ruling or regulatory interpretation. The model suggests that two-thirds of U.S. streams and half of wetlands may be protected under one rule, while another protects fewer than half of these waters.

The missing link: Recent study explores the connection between NOx control and SNA, O3 reduction

A recent study explores the connection between NOx control and reduction of sulfate-nitrate-ammonium (SNA) and ozone (O3) levels. The research found that controlling NOx emissions is a potent measure for protecting the environment, especially in lowering harmful particles and ground-level ozone.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2024

Tiny ant species disrupts lion’s hunting behavior

A study published in Science found that an invasive ant species is altering tree cover in an East African wildlife area, making it harder for lions to hunt their preferred prey, zebras. The ant's arrival has shifted predator-prey behavior, potentially jeopardizing lion populations already on the brink of endangerment.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalScience·DateJan 25, 2024

The anti-acne medicine isotretinoin, which can cause defects in a developing fetus, is now used by almost 2 in 1,000 girls and women of childbearing age, according to analysis of German database of 25 million

A population-based study in Germany reveals almost 2 in 1,000 girls and women of childbearing age are prescribed isotretinoin, a medication linked to fetal defects. The study found a significant increase in isotretinoin-exposed pregnancies, highlighting the need for better monitoring and guidance.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 25, 2024

Study: UAB researchers establish optimal immunosuppression regimen for pig-to-human kidney transplants

Researchers found combining common immune-suppressing drugs with a complement inhibitor effectively managed the initial human immune response against transplanted pig kidneys. The regimen, which relies solely on already FDA-approved medications, showed remarkable success in Parsons model case series.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeCase study·DateJan 25, 2024

NIH study finds flame-retardant chemicals may increase risk of preterm birth, higher birth weight

A recent NIH study found that exposure to organophosphate ester flame retardants during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth, particularly in female infants. Higher concentrations of certain OPE markers were also associated with higher birth weights, which can be a sign of potential complications.

SourceEnvironmental influences on Child Health Outcomes·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2024

Pilot study demonstrates potential for PTSD treatment program for veterans, first responders

A pilot study demonstrates the effectiveness of a new treatment program for veterans and first responders struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The program, called Warriors' Ascent, achieved a substantially lower dropout rate than traditional treatments, reducing depression, PTSD, and high-risk drinking in participants.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Psychotherapy Integration·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2024

Press registration opens for ACS Spring 2024

The American Chemical Society's (ACS) upcoming hybrid meeting and exposition, ACS Spring 2024, will take place virtually and in person in New Orleans from March 17-21. The event will provide access to nearly 12,000 presentations on topics including agriculture and food, energy and fuels, health and medicine, sustainability, and more.

'Old smokers' and 'squalling newborns' among hidden stars spotted for first time

A team of international scientists has spotted a new type of elderly giant star, nicknamed 'old smokers,' which emits clouds of smoke over decades. These stars, hidden from view in visible light, were discovered using infrared light and have significant implications for the spread of heavy elements in space.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2024

Cellular scaffolding rewired to make microscopic railways

Princeton researchers create a system to control the growth of microtubule branches, enabling precise chemical transport and potential applications in soft robotics, new medicines, and biomolecular transport. The technique harnesses cellular scaffolding to build novel materials and technologies.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2024

Dinosaurs might have used feathers on forelimbs and tails to flush and pursue their prey – a new hypothesis integrates morphology, behavior and neurobiology

A team of scientists proposes the 'flush-pursue hypothesis', suggesting that small dinosaurs with proto-wings used a similar strategy to birds, displaying contrasting plumage on wings and tails to trigger prey escapes. This idea is rooted in field-ornithological studies and neurobiological research on birds.

SourceLaboratory of Behavioral Ecology and Evolution at Seoul National University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2024

"COP28 demonstrated the inability of international diplomacy and governance to prevent the worsening climate crisis and to help adequately those most harmed by it", states climate researcher Prof. Paul G. Harris

COP28 failed to prevent the worsening climate crisis and help those most harmed by it, according to climate researcher Prof. Paul G. Harris. The article highlights the limitations of international diplomacy and governance in addressing climate change.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Sustainability and Transformation·DateJan 25, 2024

The influence of microbiologists in Spain during COVID-19 helped public hospital laboratories to be more prepared today than before the pandemic

A recent study by Spanish and British researchers found that the influence of clinical microbiologists in Spain helped prepare public hospital laboratories for COVID-19 testing. In contrast, the UK's large centralized laboratories built during the pandemic have been dismantled due to high costs and low quality of testing.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalInnovation·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 25, 2024

#ASC2024: Ethnicity as survival predictor for gastric cancer, early liver retransplantation, risk factors for chemical restraint use among adult trauma patients and more

UCLA surgeons and scientists present research on ethnic predictors of gastric cancer survival, early liver retransplantation and risk factors for chemical restraint use in adult trauma patients. The studies highlight the importance of understanding these factors to improve patient care.

Geisinger College faculty, graduate students publish paper shining light on conflicts of interest in guidelines for psychiatric care

A study published by Geisinger College faculty and graduate students found that 55% of DSM-5-TR panel members received payments from industry, highlighting the need for stricter standards. The researchers argue that individuals with financial ties to industry should not have decision-making authority in guideline development.

SourceGeisinger Health System·JournalBMJ·DateJan 25, 2024

Comprehensive study reveals ecological threat of trace organic pollutants in China's wastewater effluents

A comprehensive study has found considerable ecological threats from trace organic pollutants in Chinese wastewater treatment plant effluents. The researchers detected 216 compounds from 11 chemical classes, with perfluoroalkyl substances and bisphenol analogs accounting for 59% of total pollution.

SourceNanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, MEE·JournalEco-Environment & Health·DateJan 25, 2024

Advanced Full-color image sensor technology enabling simultaneous energy harvesting and imaging

Researchers at KIST have successfully developed an organic-based photoelectric photodetector that captures images while generating electricity, enhancing energy efficiency in indoor environments. The device achieves a linear dynamic range of over 130 dB, allowing for clearer images in low-light conditions.

Car accidents, accidental overdoses account for majority of accidental deaths among U.S. soldiers deployed in Afghanistan/Iraq wars—but death rates differ by time since deployment, age, and gender

Rates of fatal motor vehicle accidents were highest among military members immediately following their return from deployment, while the highest rates of fatal accidental overdose deaths occurred later in postdeployment life. Younger soldiers between 18-24 years old were at highest risk for MVA and accidental overdoses.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2024

New analysis shows that disinfection is the most effective way to prevent viral contamination of restroom surfaces

Researchers analyzed viral particle spread in toilets with open and closed lids, finding no difference in contamination regardless of lid status. Disinfecting toilets significantly reduced virus found in toilet bowl water and nearby surfaces.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2024

Virtual noise assessment for passenger jet of the future

Researchers used psycho-acoustic simulations and auralization to assess the noise emissions of new aircraft designs, including a blended wing body. The results show that the new design is rated significantly less noisy than conventional passenger jets, with take-offs leaving a more unfamiliar sound impression.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalAerospace Science and Technology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 25, 2024

Geometric phase-encoded liquid crystal optical sensing

Researchers developed a cholesteric phase liquid crystal polymer (CLCP) visual sensing platform utilizing geometric phase coding for real-time visual patterns. The system generates image-based sensing signals through distinct visual patterns, offering an intuitive alternative to conventional methods.

Programming light propagation creates highly efficient neural networks

Researchers have developed a novel optical neural network architecture that achieves nonlinear optical computation by precisely controlling ultrashort pulse propagation in multimode fibers. This approach streamlines the need for energy-intensive digital processes, achieving comparable accuracy with significantly reduced parameters.

Study reveals link between cannabis use and current asthma prevalence in US adolescents and adults

A recent study by researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found a significant link between cannabis use and current asthma prevalence among US adolescents and adults. The study analyzed data from the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, finding that individuals who reported cannabis use in the past ...

Three Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis studies explore the use of traditional Chinese medicine for various diseases

Researchers explore the use of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) compounds for treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and improving sensitivity to radiation therapy for lung cancer. TCM compounds, such as oridonin and ginsenoside Rg5, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects and radiosensitizing properties.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2024

University of Kentucky study explores how macrophages regulate regenerative healing in spiny mice

A University of Kentucky team studied macrophages in spiny mice to see how they contribute to regenerative healing. They found that specific proteins released by these cells promote tissue rebuilding and growth, suggesting a potential key to triggering regeneration in humans. The study's findings may lead to new treatments for injuries...

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJan 25, 2024

Scientists at EMBL Heidelberg discover how ancient ‘relaxant-inflammatory’ molecules get sponges (and blood vessels) moving

Sponges exhibit coordinated movements despite lacking muscles or neurons, attributed to relaxation of stress fibres triggered by an evolutionarily ancient inflammation-like mechanism. This process also regulates human blood vessel contraction, influencing blood pressure.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2024

Experts call for major shift in international decision-making to tackle ‘devastating’ impact of urban expansion and avoid ‘planetary catastrophe’

Leading scientists propose a new global advisory system to address the alarming impacts of urban expansion, which would fulfil a similar function as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The system aims to manage sustainable growth of cities and protect vital Earth systems.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 25, 2024

Magnesium still has the potential to become an efficient hydrogen store

A Swiss-Polish team has found the answer to why previous attempts to use magnesium hydride for efficient hydrogen storage failed. The researchers developed a new model that predicts local, thermodynamically stable clusters are formed in magnesium during hydrogen injection, reducing hydrogen ion mobility.

American College of Radiology releases joint statement on the use of AI tools in radiology

The American College of Radiology has issued a joint statement with four other radiology societies to address the development and use of AI tools in radiology. The statement emphasizes the need for increased monitoring of AI utility and safety, advocating for collaboration among developers, clinicians, purchasers, and regulators.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 25, 2024

International consortium identifies biomarkers that improve prediction accuracy of cardiovascular disease risk in people with type 2 diabetes

A international academic consortium has identified 13 biomarkers that significantly improve the ability to accurately predict cardiovascular disease risk in people with type 2 diabetes. The standout biomarker was N-terminal pro b-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), which is currently used to monitor heart failure status in patients.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCommunications Medicine·DateJan 25, 2024

African smallholder farmers benefit from reduced crop losses and higher incomes from a novel pest alert service

Smallholder farmers in four African countries experienced reduced crop losses and higher incomes after receiving pest alerts generated using earth observation data. The Pest Risk Information Service (PRISE) project demonstrated a positive impact on farmers' livelihoods, with benefits more pronounced for male-headed households.

SourceCABI·JournalJournal of Integrated Pest Management·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2024

Total organic carbon concentrations measured over Canadian oil sands reveal huge underestimate of emissions

A recent study by Megan He and colleagues finds that traditional methods for estimating pollution in the Canadian oil sands can be severely inaccurate, with actual emissions exceeding industry values by up to 6300%. The research highlights the need for more comprehensive monitoring of organic carbon emissions from oil sands operations.

These male marsupials give up sleep for sex

Researchers found that male antechinus reduce their sleep by 3 hours per night for 3 weeks to focus on mating and reproduction. The study suggests that the marsupials may have a unique ability to thrive with reduced sleep, but the exact mechanisms behind this adaptation are unclear.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2024