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Science News for July 18, 2024


First-ever hurricane evacuation order database may hold keys to future readiness

A new US-based database of hurricane evacuation orders can help leaders and communities increase resilience, create better policy, and ultimately reduce loss of life. The HEvOD database includes nationwide public-facing evacuation orders from 2014-2022, offering insights into effective strategies for future emergencies.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 18, 2024

More than one-third of adults with medical debt and depression or anxiety delayed mental health care in previous 12 months

A recent study found that one-third of adults with medical debt and depression or anxiety delayed mental health care in the previous 12 months. Medical debt significantly increases the likelihood of delaying or forgoing mental health care among those with these conditions. The study highlights the need for healthcare systems to improve...

Archivist explores Troy's invisible workers

A digital archive created by archivist Jeff Kramer highlights the contributions of Albanian laborer Emin Kani Barin to UC's historic excavation at Troy. Kani's impressive skills and work ethic earned him recognition from Carl Blegen, the expedition leader, who described him as the dig's most important worker.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalBulletin of the History of Archaeology·TypeNews article·DateJul 18, 2024

Is climate change keeping patients from vital doctor appointments?

A study from Drexel University researchers found that temperature extremes are associated with higher rates of missed primary care appointments, particularly among older adults and those with chronic conditions. The study suggests that telemedicine coverage could help mitigate this issue as climate change worsens.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 18, 2024

Physical exercise is associated with fewer depression symptoms in people with osteoarthritis, even - and especially - in those who experience the most pain, per Australian study

A cross-sectional study in Australia and Canada found that physical exercise is associated with fewer depression symptoms in people with osteoarthritis. The study suggests that exercise may be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing severe pain, improving mental health outcomes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·DateJul 18, 2024

How can site-specific digital twins revolutionize urban design and community engagement?

Site-specific digital twins offer a promising approach to urban design and community engagement by integrating virtual and physical realms, promoting inclusive and responsive development. The concept encourages scalability and specificity in applying DT techniques, facilitating data integration and cross-scale twinning.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalLandscape Architecture Frontiers·TypeCase study·DateJul 18, 2024

Pompeii skeleton discovery shows another natural disaster may have made Vesuvius eruption even more deadly

Researchers found two male skeletons with severe fracture and trauma injuries, suggesting earthquakes triggered building collapses during the 79CE eruption. The study provides new insight into the destruction of Pompeii, shedding light on the complex interplay between volcanic and seismic phenomena.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Earth Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024

Positive and negative impacts of interfacial hydrogen bonds on photocatalytic hydrogen evolution

Researchers investigate interfacial hydrogen bond structure and dynamics to maximize catalytic activity in photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. Depositing three water layers in a water vapor environment is optimal for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution, according to the study.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024

New Surgical Infection Society guidelines on the management of intra-abdominal infection

The new guidelines from the Surgical Infection Society offer updated recommendations for antimicrobial agent selection, source control, and treatment of specific pathogens. These evidence-based guidelines aim to improve clinical outcomes and reduce mortality rates from intra-abdominal infections globally.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalSurgical Infections·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 18, 2024

A “wrenaissance” for House Wrens; species and genus splits for Barn Owls and Plovers; and lumping of Redpolls included in 2024 Check-list changes

The 65th Supplement to the American Ornithological Society's Check-list of North American Birds includes significant updates to bird species classifications. Species splits for House Wrens and Barn Owls, as well as a lumping of Redpolls, are among the changes. These revisions provide taxonomic and nomenclatural foundation for bird rese...

Mental health apps may help those waiting for care, study finds

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that mental health apps can significantly reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and suicidality in individuals waiting for their initial psychiatric appointment. The study, which involved over 2,000 patients, showed improvement in all groups, regardless of the app used.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 18, 2024

Of ants and trees: ‘Evolutionary déjà’ in the tropical rainforest

Researchers discovered that multiple ant species have evolved specialized relationships with understory trees in Central America, mirroring similar mutualisms found elsewhere. The study suggests that these interactions can evolve independently, with two distinct clusters emerging around 3 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 2024

Healthy prenatal dietary pattern and offspring autism

A cohort study found that a healthy prenatal dietary pattern was linked to reduced risk of autism diagnosis and social communication difficulties in offspring. Adherence to this dietary pattern was not significantly associated with reduced restrictive and repetitive behaviors.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 18, 2024

New ECDC Director Pamela Rendi-Wagner emphasises importance of restoring and reinforcing public trust in science after pandemic, in editorial for Eurosurveillance

Dr. Pamela Rendi-Wagner, new ECDC Director, stresses the need to restore and reinforce public trust in science after the COVID-19 pandemic. She highlights challenges such as war, climate change, and social inequalities, which can lead to misinformation and reversed medical advances. ECDC is taking steps to implement its expanded mandat...

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 18, 2024

Unlocking the genetic code of amur grape: Insights into plant cold tolerance and evolution

Scientists assembled high-quality genome sequence of Amur grape, revealing its evolutionary journey and genetic secrets behind exceptional cold tolerance. The study identifies key genes responsible for resveratrol accumulation and sex determination, offering new avenues for grape breeding and cultivation.

From roots to leaves: The nitrogen connection to photosynthetic efficiency

Researchers found that different nitrogen forms impact leaf anatomy, affecting photosynthesis efficiency. NH4+ nutrition leads to lower photosynthesis due to thicker cell walls and fewer chloroplasts. Optimizing nitrogen form applications can enhance photosynthesis and plant growth, particularly in crops like Lonicera japonica.

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte therapy marks a milestone in cancer treatment

The FDA approval of lifileucel, the first commercial tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy, marks a major advancement in personalized cancer treatment. Moffitt researchers are expanding this therapeutic approach to treat other solid tumor cancer types, such as lung, sarcoma, cervical and bladder.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalCancer Cell·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 18, 2024

Montana State researcher studies nano-scale materials that mimic enzymes to convert CO2 into chemical building blocks

A Montana State University researcher has developed nano-scale materials that can convert carbon dioxide into chemical building blocks, marking a potential step forward in reducing atmospheric CO2. The materials mimic enzymes and have the ability to selectively capture CO2 from the air.

SourceMontana State University·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024

Can doomscrolling trigger an existential crisis?

A recent study found that habitual doomscrolling on social media can lead to feelings of existential anxiety, pessimism about human nature, and distrust. Researchers surveyed 800 university students from Iran and the US, discovering a link between excessive negative news consumption and increased anxiety, despair, and misanthropy.

SourceFlinders University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior Reports·TypeSurvey·DateJul 18, 2024

Energy efficiency may keep rodents at bay

A Yale University study suggests that retrofitting homes with efficient insulation and sealing leaky windows can reduce rodent infestations, while also decreasing wasteful energy usage. The research found that large-scale retrofitting schemes can be effective in excluding rats from homes and increasing predation across neighborhoods.

SourceYale University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 18, 2024

Novel drug application shows improved survival for patients with relapsed and refractory acute myeloid leukemia

A novel strategy using venetoclax and azacitidine demonstrates significant anti-cancer effect with mild toxicity for relapsed/refractory AML patients. The treatment showed markedly better survival rates after one year compared to a control group, with improved 'graft-versus-leukemia effects' via alterations of immune cells.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalBlood Cancer Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 2024

Time-lapse imaging for embryo selection in IVF does not improve the odds of live birth compared with conventional methods, according to largest study of its kind

A large-scale randomized controlled trial found no difference in live birth rates between time-lapse imaging and standard approaches used in IVF. The study suggests that time-lapse imaging does not improve clinical outcomes for women undergoing fertility treatment, contrary to theoretical benefits.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 18, 2024

Rising antimicrobial resistance in certain Salmonella serovars isolated from retail chicken meat

Emerging antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella isolates found in retail chicken meat poses a significant threat to public health. The study found a dramatic increase in multidrug-resistant S. Infantis, which has been linked to high levels of antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes.

HKUST engineering researchers develop advanced solid-state electrolytes for high-performance all-solid-state lithium metal batteries

Researchers at HKUST have developed a novel strategy to create solid-state electrolytes with high performance, achieving exceptional ionic conductivity and lithium-ion transport capability. The new electrolyte enabled the fabrication of a full cell demonstrating an initial discharge capacity of 141.5 mAh g−1 at room temperature.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024

Your therapist wants you to go outside

A meta-analysis of existing research found that spending time in nature, even as little as 10 minutes, can yield short-term benefits for adults with mental illness. The analysis examined 30 years of published research on the social, mental, and physical health effects of exposure to nature.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalEcopsychology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 18, 2024

Pusan National University study provides breakthrough in enhancing solid oxide fuel cell efficiency with rapid PrOx coating method

A team of researchers led by Professor Beom-Kyeong Park has made a breakthrough in enhancing solid oxide fuel cell efficiency with a rapid PrOx coating method. The study demonstrated significant enhancements in SOFC electrode performance, reducing polarization resistance and boosting peak power density.

SourcePusan National University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024

Unlocking the power of nanopores

Researchers have successfully designed transmembrane β-barrel pores with custom shapes and properties, enabling miniaturization of sensing and sequencing applications into portable devices. The design method uses computational tools to control the shape and chemistry on a molecular level, resulting in stable and quiet signal generation.

SourceVlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024

GIST researchers develop novel electrode for improving flowless zinc-bromine battery

Researchers at Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology developed a novel nitrogen-doped mesoporous carbon-coated thick GF electrode to suppress the crossover phenomenon in flowless zinc-bromine batteries. The new electrodes effectively prevented self-discharge, improving battery performance and lifespan.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024

Synthesis of a new compound with excellent intrinsic magnetic properties using smaller amounts of rare earth elements

Scientists have successfully synthesized a new SmFe-based magnetic compound, exhibiting superior intrinsic magnetic properties compared to traditional NdFeB compounds. The compound's high magnetization and anisotropy field make it suitable for electric vehicle applications without the need for critical rare-earth elements.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalActa Materialia·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024

Groundcherry gets genetic upgrades: Turning a garden curiosity into an agricultural powerhouse

Researchers have used CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to improve groundcherry's growth habit and fruit characteristics. This breakthrough could lead to increased crop yields and reduce the need for pesticides. The study also highlights the potential of groundcherry as a model species for studying plant biology.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalPlants People Planet·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024

Cross-kingdom regulation of silkworm development and cocooning by mulberry microRNAs——a fresh clue to unravel the intricate dance of co-evolution

Researchers found that mulberry microRNAs can shape silkworm development and phenotypes by influencing gene expression in recipient animals. This study reveals the previously unrecognized role of plant-derived miRNAs as environmental determinants of animal development.

SourceNanjing University School of Life Sciences·JournalInsect Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024

Genetic study highlights importance of diversity in understanding health disparities

A large-scale genetic study found that genetic data from diverse groups, including non-European populations, can provide critical insights into health disparities. The study identified population-specific signals and unique genetic variations associated with specific traits or conditions, highlighting the importance of diversity in und...

Hackensack Meridian CDI Lab publishes papers pointing the way toward an exhaled-breath test for lung cancer

Scientists have successfully collected and profiled lung biomarkers from human breath, developing animal models to identify key markers for early detection of metastatic lung tumors. The research establishes a scientific roadmap for an exhaled-breath test, which may revolutionize the diagnosis and surveillance of human lung diseases.

SourceHackensack Meridian Health·JournalJournal of Extracellular Vesicles·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024

In China, property rights take wrong turn

A new study by Kishore Gawande finds that China's nationwide protection of private property rights in 2007 turbocharged its business climate. However, the country is now reversing course, with potential investors pulling back due to weakening property rights. This could lead to lower economic output and tax revenues for local governments.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Law and Economics·DateJul 18, 2024

Using AI to scrutinize, validate theories on animal evolution

A new study uses machine learning to analyze the genetic diversity of two amphibian species, finding that different processes shaped their evolution. The research suggests that population demographic events and contemporary landscape factors played a significant role in shaping the genetic variation of these species.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·TypeCase study·DateJul 18, 2024

Illinois studies explore converting wastewater to fertilizer with fungal treatment

Studies explore converting leftover wastewater from hydrothermal liquefaction into fertilizer for agricultural crops. Using a fungal treatment, researchers found significant increases in nitrate and ammonia concentrations, increasing nutrient availability. The method also removes toxic compounds, enabling circular economy applications.

Drexel team identifies drug-like molecules that show early success in targeting breast cancer brain metastases

Researchers from Drexel University have identified two compounds, AD-5584 and AD-8007, that selectively kill cancer cells and block tumor growth by targeting a key metabolic enzyme in cancer cells. These findings show early success in shrinking breast cancer tumors in brain metastases and offer hope for more effective therapies.

SourceDrexel University·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 18, 2024

When you eat may impact your overall health, nutrition experts say

A special issue of the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics explores the effects of various fasting regimens on body weight, cardiometabolic disease risk, and sleep. The study found that time-restricted eating can result in clinically meaningful weight loss and reduction in liver enzymes in adolescents with type 2 diabetes.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024