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Science News for July 1, 2024


AI model finds the cancer clues at lightning speed

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg developed an AI model called Candycrunch to automate the analysis of glycan structures in cancer cells. The model can identify abnormal structures and biomarkers in just a few seconds, accelerating the discovery of new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Methods·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 1, 2024

Physical exercise prevents nerve damage during chemotherapy

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that specific exercise concomitant with chemotherapy can prevent nerve damage in many cases. The exercises reduced the incidence of CIPN (chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy) by 50-70% and improved patients' perceived quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 1, 2024

Largest ever genetic study of age of puberty in girls shows links with weight gain

A large-scale genetic study has found a significant link between the age of puberty in girls and weight gain, highlighting potential risks for early puberty and obesity. The study identified over 1,000 genetic variants that influence the age of first menstrual period, with around 600 being observed for the first time.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 1, 2024

New UAV-based method enhances wheat uniformity monitoring and yield prediction

A research team developed an innovative UAV-based method to quantify wheat uniformity, estimating leaf area index, SPAD, fractional vegetation cover, and plant height. The approach showed strong correlations between specific indices and yield and biomass predictions, outperforming models using mean values.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Following your nose into the swarm

Researchers from the University of Konstanz discovered that locusts adapt their sense of smell when they switch to a gregarious lifestyle. This adaptation allows them to better detect food odours in the swarm's complex environment, enabling them to find food despite being in a crowded swarm.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 1, 2024

Palliative care beneficial to manage symptoms, improve quality of life for people with CVD

A new American Heart Association scientific statement highlights the benefits of palliative care in managing symptoms and improving quality of life for people with cardiovascular disease. Palliative care complements standard cardiovascular care by reducing physical symptoms, emotional distress, and assisting patients in making decision...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateJul 1, 2024

Researchers thwart resistant bacteria’s strategy

A team of researchers from the University of Southern Denmark has discovered a mechanism that reduces the formation of biofilm on the surface of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium commonly found in hospitals and resistant to most antibiotics. The biofilm-reducing system is naturally stimulated by cell wall stress, and its discovery of...

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Nanorobot with hidden weapon kills cancer cells

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet developed nanorobots that target and kill cancer cells using a 'kill switch' activated in low pH environments. The study achieved a 70% reduction in tumour growth in mice, paving the way for further investigation into its potential as a cancer treatment.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Portable engine powers artificial muscles in assistive devices

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a lightweight fluidic engine that can power muscle-mimicking soft robots for use in assistive devices. The new engine generates significant force and is untethered to an external power source, making it particularly attractive for improving people's ability to move their upp...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Geoscientists dig into why we may be alone in the Milky Way

A study by University of Texas at Dallas geoscientist Dr. Robert Stern and colleague Taras Gerya suggests that plate tectonics, oceans, and continents are necessary for the evolution of intelligent civilizations. The researchers propose refining the Drake equation factor to account for these requirements, which could explain the Fermi ...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJul 1, 2024

Finding the sweet spot in brain development

A study by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory researchers has discovered a crucial receptor protein that regulates the timing of temporary neural connections in the developing brain. Without this protein, mice exhibit atypical behaviors, highlighting its potential role in shaping brain circuits and preventing neurodevelopmental disorders.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 1, 2024

Novel blood test helps improve cancer treatments

A new liquid biopsy method analyzes gene fragments in the bloodstream to detect and track cancer, enabling oncologists to tailor treatment approaches to individual patients. This non-invasive test can help monitor treatment success, detect cancer recurrence, and improve patient quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalRadiotherapy and Oncology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

From waste to value: The right electrolytes can enhance glycerol oxidation

Researchers have found that choosing the right electrolyte significantly increases the efficiency of the glycerol oxidation reaction in PEC reactors. The study used a PEC cell with photoanodes made of nanoporous bismuth vanadate and tested acidic electrolytes, finding that certain cations and anions improve photocurrent, stability, and...

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

How politicizing migration harms health

Researchers identify 'migration stigma' as a destructive force linking immigration responses to physical and mental health. This concept pulls together phenomena like politicization of immigration and considers its influence on immigrants' health, highlighting the need for interventions to reduce stigma.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateJul 1, 2024

New insights into osteoporosis

A research team from Osaka University identified a key osteoporosis-related gene, Men1, and developed a new animal model of the disease. The study found that inactivation of Men1 led to cellular senescence in osteoblasts, reducing bone formation activity and increasing bone resorption.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAging Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

How researchers are using digital city-building games to shape the future

Lancaster University researchers develop new mapping technology to encourage public participation in urban planning. They modify 'Cities: Skylines' to create realistic cities and inform planning, allowing players to manage services and infrastructure. The study aims to increase citizen engagement through enjoyable gaming experiences.

SourceLancaster University·JournalActa Ludologica·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Light targets cells for death and triggers immune response with laser precision

Researchers develop optogenetic system to precisely target cancer cells using light, inducing inflammatory cell death and triggering immune response. The approach aims to modulate the immune suppressive environment around cancer cells, helping T cells recognize and attack the disease.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Targeted protein degradation: new adapter molecule expands therapeutic potential around the cell's waste disposal system

A new adapter molecule recruits a previously unknown E3 ligase for targeted protein degradation, expanding therapeutic options for cancer and rare diseases. The discovery offers advantages in development due to the molecule's smaller size and potential for tissue-specific application.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Novel spectroscopy technique sheds light on NOx reduction

Lehigh University researchers developed a novel spectroscopy technique called modulation excitation spectroscopy (MES) to study selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of nitrogen oxides. The results, published in Nature Communications, reveal the correct reaction pathway and have significant implications for optimizing catalytic converters.

SourceLehigh University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 1, 2024

How humans transform island bird communities

A study published in Ecology Letters found that humans have a greater impact on alien species diversity than geographic variables on most islands. Human factors such as colonisation pressure, habitat modification, and connectivity drive disparities in functional and phylogenetic diversity.

SourceCNRS·JournalEcology Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 1, 2024

Progress in online detection methods of bioaerosols

The review highlights the need for accurate bioaerosol detection methods that can distinguish between microorganisms at the species level. Laser-induced fluorescence and Raman spectroscopy are identified as promising technologies for online monitoring, but flaws in current methods must be addressed to improve accuracy.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalFundamental Research·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 1, 2024

A research team develops SCAG algorithm for accurate branch detection and angle calculation in soybeans using LiDAR data

A new SCAG algorithm achieves high accuracy in branch detection and angle calculation, identifying novel traits for evaluating soybean density tolerance. The open-source algorithm has potential to enhance crop development and agricultural productivity.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

The evidence is mounting: humans were responsible for the extinction of large mammals

Researchers from Aarhus University conclude that human hunting was responsible for the extinction of at least 161 species of large mammals over the past 50,000 years. The analysis of various research fields, including climate history and genetic estimates, suggests that human hunting was widespread and consistent across the world.

SourceAarhus University·JournalCambridge Prisms Extinction·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 1, 2024

Expanding role of epigenetics in human health and disease

Epigenetic modifications regulate gene expression and cellular function, playing critical roles in normal development and disease processes. Recent technological advancements have improved our understanding of the epigenome, enabling targeted therapies to treat cancers and other diseases with aberrant epigenetic modifications.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalExploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine·DateJul 1, 2024

Genetic patterns of world’s farmed, domesticated foxes revealed via historical deep-dive

A team of researchers uncovered the geographical origins of farmed foxes and understood the role of genetic diversity in their domestication. The study found that every captive population originated from wild North American foxes, with greater genetic diversity observed in Eurasian populations.

University of Cincinnati study: Overlooked brain organ plays key role in promoting brain repair after stroke

Researchers found that removing the choroid plexus led to a reduction in newly born immature neurons, which are essential for repairing damage caused by stroke. The study suggests that the choroid plexus may be necessary to retain these cells and facilitate brain repair after injury.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

​​Racial and ethnic differences emerge in rates of inpatient care ​following psychiatric emergencies among minority youths, according to new study

A new study found that Asian American/Pacific Islander youths experience lower rates of inpatient care, while American Indian/Alaska Native youths experience higher rates compared to other racial groups. The researchers suggest that this may be linked to historical trauma and call for further research on care pathways to advance equity.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateJul 1, 2024

Rutgers researchers examine how fungal toxins impact hormones in pregnancy

Rutgers researchers found that exposure to Zearalenone, a fungal toxin common in processed foods, was associated with altered estrogen and androgen levels in pregnant women. High levels of ZEN were linked to lower estrone and free testosterone in male fetuses and higher 17β-estradiol in female fetuses.

SourceRutgers University·JournalInternational Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health·TypeObservational study·DateJul 1, 2024

Pusan National University researchers assess the impact of repeated item development faculty training on item difficulty prediction

A study by Pusan National University researchers found that repeated item development training enhances faculty members' accuracy in predicting and adjusting item difficulty levels, leading to better educational outcomes. The training improved the quality of MCQ assessments in medical education.

SourcePusan National University·JournalBMC Medical Education·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Can a computer chip have zero energy loss in 1.58 dimensions?

Theoretical physicists at Utrecht University have discovered that fractals might hold the key to making electric currents flow without energy loss. By growing fractal structures on top of semiconductors, scientists have created materials with zero-dimensional corner modes and lossless one-dimensional edge states.

SourceUtrecht University, Faculty of Science·JournalNature Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 1, 2024

July Issues of APA Journals cover new research on pharmacogenomics, ADHD medication use, associations between mental health and cardiometabolic complications later in life, and more

The July issues of APA journals feature new research on pharmacogenomics, ADHD medication use and associations between mental health and cardiometabolic complications later in life. The studies highlight the importance of personalized medicine and effective treatment strategies for psychiatric disorders.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJul 1, 2024

Salt-stress survival: AI-powered study decodes the resilience of Spartina alterniflora

A collaborative research team used machine learning to investigate the transcriptomic responses of Spartina alterniflora to various salt concentrations. The study revealed significant transcriptional changes and identified a key gene family member that shows potential for genetic engineering to improve crop resilience.

Medication choice may affect weight gain when initiating antidepressant treatment

A study of over 183,000 adults found that certain antidepressants can cause significant weight gain or loss, while others have little to no effect. Bupropion was consistently associated with the least weight gain among 8 first-line antidepressants, which may impact medication adherence and patient treatment decisions.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateJul 1, 2024

Immunotherapy in colorectal cancer

Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising approach in treating metastatic colorectal cancer, especially for patients with dMMR/MSI-H tumors. The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors has shown favorable outcomes in clinical trials, including improved progression-free survival and disease control rates.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalExploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine·DateJul 1, 2024

Mothers who receive childcare support from maternal grandparents show more parental warmth, finds NTU Singapore study

The NTU Singapore-led study found that mothers whose parents help with childcare are more likely to show their children parental warmth. Mothers who received childcare support from maternal grandparents also reported engaging in more positive parenting, characterized by warmth and responsiveness.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateJul 1, 2024

Diversifying China’s urban heating systems will reduce risk of carbon lock-in

A Princeton-led study suggests that diversifying China's urban heating systems will reduce the risk of carbon lock-in. The researchers examined three hypothetical investment scenarios and found that under a low-coal scenario, electric technologies can meet up to 34% of total district heating demand in 2030.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalNature Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 1, 2024

Ripe for discovery: Unraveling the genetic switches of pear maturation

Researchers at Nanjing Agricultural University identified a crucial transcription factor PbHB.G7.2 that enhances ethylene biosynthesis during pear fruit ripening, significantly impacting the ripening process. The study sheds light on genetic mechanisms underlying fruit ripening, offering potential for improved breeding strategies and c...

Shrinking glaciers: Microscopic fungi enhance soil carbon storage in new landscapes created by shrinking Arctic glaciers

In a study published in PNAS, researchers found that microscopic fungi play a key role in enhancing soil carbon storage in newly formed landscapes created by shrinking Arctic glaciers. The team discovered diverse communities of microbes thriving in the barren soils, and pioneer fungi sequester carbon in the soil.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2024

A research team develops hyperspectral library for rice nutrient stress, achieving up to 100% accuracy with deep learning

A research team developed a hyperspectral library for rice nutrient stress detection using deep learning, achieving accurate results up to 100%. The study improved the precision of nutrient stress detection and contributed to better crop management in precision agriculture.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Common respiratory infections may have protected children from COVID-19, study suggests

Researchers found that frequent respiratory infections in children may have elevated their innate immune activity, protecting them from severe COVID-19 symptoms. The study suggests that childhood exposure to common cold viruses and bacteria boosted the kids' immune systems, allowing them to better fight off SARS-CoV-2.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 1, 2024

New radiative transfer modeling framework enhances deep learning for plant phenotyping

A new radiative transfer modeling framework using Helios 3D software simulates RGB, multispectral, thermal, and depth images of plants with high accuracy. The framework reduces the need for manual data collection, enabling efficient training of deep learning models for high-throughput plant phenotyping and advancing agricultural research.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024

Everybody needs good neighbors: resident quolls help newcomers settle in at Mulligans Flat

A new study by ANU researchers found that eastern quolls who were born at the sanctuary accepted their new neighbors with open paws. The quolls who were introduced from other sanctuaries settled into similar-sized home ranges to the residents, suggesting a positive impact of reintroduction on the population.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalBiodiversity and Conservation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 1, 2024

Dampening the "seeds" of hurricanes

Researchers found that higher atmospheric moisture produced weaker and slower-moving African easterly waves, making it harder for hurricanes to form. The study used innovative modeling capabilities to simulate the effects of increased regional moisture on hurricane formation.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalJournal of Advances in Modeling Earth Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 1, 2024

World’s most accurate and precise atomic clock pushes new frontiers in physics

Researchers at JILA have built an atomic clock that is more precise and accurate than any previous clock, enabling pinpoint navigation in space and searches for new particles. The clock's high precision could reveal hidden underground mineral deposits and test fundamental theories like general relativity with unprecedented rigor.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 1, 2024

Harvard researchers find that gratitude is a useful emotional tool in reducing desire to smoke

Researchers found that evoking feelings of gratitude in smokers decreases their craving for cigarettes and increases their likelihood of enrolling in a smoking cessation program. The study suggests that public health campaigns should consider inducing gratitude instead of negative emotions to promote effective smoking cessation.

SourceShorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy, Harvard Kennedy School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2024