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Science News for July 9, 2024


From genomes to gardens: introducing the HortGenome Search Engine for horticultural crops

The HortGenome Search Engine (HSE) provides easy access to extensive genomic data from over 500 plant species, enabling researchers to quickly pinpoint genes associated with desirable traits. This enables the breeding of crop varieties that are more nutritious, resilient, and compatible with sustainable agricultural practices.

High throughput prediction of sugar beet root weight and sugar content in a breeding field using UAV derived growth dynamics

A UAV-based method was developed to accurately predict sugar beet root weight and sugar content, improving breeding efficiency and cultivar development. The approach achieved significant correlation coefficients (R^2 = 0.89 for RW and 0.83 for SC) using canopy coverage and height data.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024

Super-resolution machining of single crystalline sapphire by GHz burst mode femtosecond laser-induced plasma assisted ablation

Researchers demonstrate high-performance micromachining of single crystalline sapphire using GHz burst mode femtosecond laser-induced plasma assisted ablation. The process achieves higher ablation efficiency, improved quality and better fabrication resolution compared to single-pulse mode laser direct ablation.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Science·DateJul 9, 2024

Risky drinkers most at risk: Ads from sports broadcasts significantly increase alcohol urges

New Edith Cowan University research shows that exposure to alcohol advertisements during national sports broadcasts significantly increases cravings in people with risky drinking behaviors. The study found a significant increase in alcohol cravings among risky drinkers, particularly those with a preference for the advertised beverage.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalHealth Promotion Journal of Australia·TypeSurvey·DateJul 9, 2024

Novel two-step electrolysis of water suggested for hydrogen production

Researchers developed advanced cobalt-doped nickel hydroxide bipolar electrodes and non-noble metal catalysts to improve the efficiency and stability of two-step water electrolysis for hydrogen production. The new method enables low cell voltages, high decoupling efficiency, and high energy conversion efficiency.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Colloid and Interface Science·DateJul 9, 2024

Robert A. Rissman, Ph.D., receives the 2024 Alzheimer Award

Dr. Rissman's research uses plasma Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio to predict brain amyloid PET positivity and identify individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease. His findings demonstrate the potential of a blood test to screen for amyloid in preclinical AD trials.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 9, 2024

Study examines tree adaptability to climate change

A recent study found that tree species can sustain life in temperatures higher or lower than where they are currently growing. The research revealed that trees have overlapping potential niches that extend beyond their realized niches, allowing them to expand their ranges. This new understanding challenges current methods for predictin...

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalScience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 9, 2024

An approach for robust facial attribute classification

Researchers proposed a WS-SE approach for FAC, incorporating frequency-domain and image-domain features with channel attention, achieving more efficient performance than CNN. The study also introduces a learning strategy from a causal view to exploit attribute label relationships, enabling high-confidence effect attribute inference.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024

Study investigates vascular dysfunction as mechanism underlying link between heart and bone health in older adults

Researchers linked impaired blood vessel function with lower bone density and worse bone microstructure, but found no independent causal pathway. The study suggests shared risk factors may be more important in the development of osteoporosis than vascular dysfunction.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJul 9, 2024

New method could yield fast, cross-country quantum network

Researchers at University of Chicago PME have outlined a new approach to building long quantum channels using vacuum sealed tubes with spaced-out lenses. These channels can transmit quantum information over thousands of kilometers, enabling large-scale quantum networks that can process tens of terabytes of data per second.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 9, 2024

Penn pioneers a 'one-pot platform' to promptly produce mRNA delivery particles

The University of Pennsylvania team has pioneered a novel 'one-pot platform' to produce mRNA delivery particles, accelerating the synthesis process and enabling precise targeting of specific organs. The approach leverages click-like chemistry to create lipid nanoparticles with biodegradable components, enhancing mRNA delivery into cells.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024

Scientists design method to lessen reliance on air conditioning

Scientists have developed a new method to reduce dependence on air conditioners by utilizing natural ventilation techniques in buildings. The study, conducted on a prototype building in the UAE, shows that passive cooling can lower indoor temperature by 0.7 degrees centigrade, with potential energy consumption reduction.

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·JournalJournal of Architectural Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024

The new paradigm in volunteering -- and how organizations can adapt to "neither-growing-nor-fading" brand relationships

New volunteers seek flexibility and opportunity, often showing a weaker sense of affiliation with organizations. Organizations can effectively cultivate these relationships by establishing physical infrastructure, providing training and competence-building activities, and communicating a compelling narrative.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJul 9, 2024

Archaeologists report earliest evidence for plant farming in east Africa

Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of early plant farming in east Africa, revealing a pattern of gradual introductions of different crops that originated from different parts of the continent. The study found domesticated cowpea, sorghum, and finger millet seeds dating back to around 2,300 years ago.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateJul 9, 2024

Mechanism of phosphorylation in TREK channels offers therapeutic potential

Researchers analyzed TREK channels and found that phosphorylation plays a central role in their opening and closing. The study reveals critical interactions between protein dynamics and the channel's selectivity filter. This understanding paves the way for developing new small molecule modulators to target TREK channels.

SourceLeibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 9, 2024

Arabidopsis PDLP7 modulated plasmodesmata function is related to BG10-dependent glucosidase activity required for callose degradation

This study reveals that Arabidopsis PDLP7 plays a crucial role in regulating plasmodesmata function and plant antiviral defenses. The protein interacts with glucan endo-1,3-β-glucosidase 10 (BG10) to facilitate callose degradation, leading to increased β-1,3-glucanase activity and reduced viral transmission.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateJul 9, 2024

Researchers examine economic effects on technological advancements of blue hydrogen production

Researchers estimate the expected outcomes in long-term expenses as those hydrogen production pathways evolve. The study concludes that experience from deploying blue hydrogen projects will help lower future costs, while extended tax incentives for carbon sequestration can significantly reduce costs further.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 9, 2024

Mining rare earth metals from electronic waste

A team of researchers has developed a simple and efficient method to separate and recover rare earth metals from complex mixtures, including Europium. This approach uses tetrathiometallates to reduce the need for chemical- and energy-intensive separation processes, making it a more environmentally friendly and economically viable option.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 9, 2024

Mayo Clinic marks medical milestone with world’s first known successful total larynx transplant performed in a patient with an active cancer as part of a clinical trial

Mayo Clinic's surgical team successfully performed the rare procedure, which included multiple organs, on a Massachusetts man with a rare form of laryngeal cancer. The landmark surgery, conducted as part of a clinical trial, marks a significant step towards making larynx transplantation available to a wider population.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJul 9, 2024

Study reveals racial disparities in Huntington’s disease diagnoses

A new study by UCLA Health reveals racial disparities in Huntington's disease diagnoses, with Black patients receiving diagnoses one year later than White patients. The study analyzed nearly 5,000 patient data points and found that these disparities may exacerbate underrepresentation of minority groups in clinical trials.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNeurology Clinical Practice·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 9, 2024

From empowering women to being empowered by women: A gendered social innovation framework for tourism-led development initiatives

The study explores gendered social innovation in tourism, revealing transformative trajectories of female entrepreneurs in Ecuador and Mexico. Relational empowerment is found to arise from interactions with family members, community leaders, and colleagues, while structural limitations such as sexism and limited access to resources res...

SourceEscuela Superior Politecnica del Litoral·JournalTourism Management·TypeObservational study·DateJul 9, 2024

UQ research reveals exercise brain boost can last for years

High-intensity interval exercise improves brain function in older adults for up to 5 years, with structural and connectivity changes in the hippocampus detected on high-resolution MRI scans. The study found that only high-intensity interval exercise led to cognitive improvement retained for up to 5 years.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalAging and Disease·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 9, 2024

Researchers listen to the hearts of bats in flight

Researchers from Max Planck Institute tracked the heart rates of male common noctule bats during flights, revealing a significant increase in heart rate from 6 to 900 beats per minute. The study found that bats consume up to 42% more energy in summer compared to spring, and develop unique strategies to survive in different seasons.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJul 9, 2024

Researchers introduce new method to fine-tune properties of layered transition metal dichalcogenides crystals

Researchers have developed a novel approach to manipulate inter-layer coupling strength in layered TMDs crystals, enabling fine-tuning of their physical properties. The method involves deliberately introducing fractional misalignment of adjacent layers, revealing the dualistic insulating nature of certain materials.

Brain neurotransmitter receptor antagonist found to prevent opioid addiction in mice

A UCLA Health study discovered that suvorexant, an insomnia medication, blocks brain receptors for hypocretin and prevents opioid addiction in mice. The drug maintains behavioral alertness at lower doses than those inducing sleep. Further studies are needed to determine its effectiveness in humans with opioid use disorder.

Hepatitis C leaves “scars” in immune cells even after successful treatment

Researchers found that the frequency of activated TREG cells remained elevated during treatment and continued to be high even after the virus was eliminated. Inflammatory features, such as increased TNF signaling, were sustained in TREG cells, indicating long-term immune system changes induced by the chronic infection.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalJournal of Hepatology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024

Water stored under artificial turf could make cities cooler and safer to play in

Researchers in the Netherlands have developed a self-cooling artificial turf system that stores rainwater under the surface, reducing surface temperatures by up to 35°C. This innovation makes sports fields safer for players and helps mitigate urban flooding, while also offering a durable and low-maintenance alternative to natural grass.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Cities·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024

Key electronic device developed for the massive arrival of 6G networks

Researchers at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have developed a telecommunications switch capable of operating at high frequencies with lower power consumption than current devices. The switch uses non-volatile material hBN, allowing it to activate its ON or OFF state with an electrical voltage pulse instead of a constant signal.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024

A time crystal made of giant atoms

Scientists at Tsinghua University and TU Wien have created a time crystal made of giant Rydberg atoms, exhibiting spontaneous symmetry breaking and oscillating light absorption. This breakthrough deepens our understanding of the time crystal phenomenon, offering potential applications in sensors.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024

A treatment for anorexia nervosa?

A study published in Nature Communications has identified a neurological mechanism underlying anorexia nervosa and found a possible cure using donepezil, a medication increasing acetylcholine levels. Ongoing studies show positive results for patients with severe anorexia nervosa treated with low doses of donepezil.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 9, 2024

Brain-computer interface therapy for stroke survivors

A brain-computer interface therapy called RehabSwift has been shown to significantly enhance hand mobility in stroke survivors. Participants who used the system showed improvements in overall arm function, hand movement tests, reaction times, and hand strength after 18 sessions.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 9, 2024

Pusan National University researchers propose backscatter communication technique for low-power internet of things communication

A research team at Pusan National University proposes a novel backscatter communication system that utilizes transfer learning and polarization diversity to achieve 40% energy efficiency gains compared to conventional systems. The system enables integrated sensing and communication technology, facilitating smart cities, efficient indus...

SourcePusan National University·JournalIEEE Internet of Things Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024

‘Unhealthy’ gut microbiome patterns linked to heightened risk of death after organ transplant

Research found that unhealthy gut microbiome patterns are associated with a heightened risk of death after solid organ transplant. The analysis revealed that the more the gut microbiome patterns diverge from those of the general population, the more likely they are to die sooner after their procedure. High numbers of certain bacterial ...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGut·TypeObservational study·DateJul 9, 2024

Bacterial glitter

Researchers sequenced DNA of 87 structurally colored bacteria to identify genes responsible for their glittering structures. The findings could lead to environmentally friendly dyes and materials.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeNews article·DateJul 9, 2024

Whale remains tracked to highlight sustainable disposal benefits

A new study has found that tracking and disposing of whale remains offshore can have significant ecological benefits, including retaining nutrients within the marine ecosystem. The research used a 14m humpback whale as a test subject and successfully predicted its drift trajectory, allowing for more effective management of whale remains.

SourceGriffith University·JournalJournal of Marine Science and Engineering·DateJul 9, 2024

Exemplar-based data generation and leaf-level analysis for phenotyping drought-stressed poplar saplings

Researchers developed a novel method combining computer vision and deep learning for drought-stressed poplar saplings, achieving 99% variety identification accuracy. The methods proposed hold significant potential for drought-resistant poplar screening and precise irrigation decision-making.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024

Pigs are social but only dogs are attached

A study by Eötvös Loránd University found that domestication and human socialization alone are insufficient to trigger a human-analog attachment bond in companion animals. Dogs displayed specific behaviors typical of the attachment bond, unlike pigs, which did not exhibit these behaviors.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2024

Nitrite-driven anaerobic ethane oxidation

A novel genus, Candidatus Alkanivoras nitrosoreducens, is described as potentially performing nitrite-driven anaerobic ethane oxidation. The study reveals a prospective fumarate addition pathway for anaerobic ethane oxidation and a complete denitrification pathway for nitrite reduction.

SourceEurasia Academic Publishing Group·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024

Empowering Ugandan female youth with self-esteem, self-efficacy, and gratitude using Transcendental Meditation

A study found that Transcendental Meditation increases self-esteem, self-efficacy, and gratitude in Ugandan female youth while decreasing tiredness and excessive alcohol use. The technique improved their mental and physical health, as well as relationships with family and community members.

SourceMaharishi International University·JournalHealth Care For Women International·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024

Life underground suited new dinosaur fine

The newly discovered dinosaur Fona shares anatomical features with burrowing animals and has preserved fossils in a manner that suggests it spent time underground. The species' small size and fragile bones are often found in bundles, indicating that it likely buried itself to escape predators.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalThe Anatomical Record·TypeObservational study·DateJul 9, 2024

Synchrotron-based imaging techniques enhance understanding of soybean nodule structures for improved nitrogen fixation efficiency

Researchers used synchrotron-based imaging to visualize and assess the functional structures in soybean root nodules, enhancing our understanding of nitrogen fixation efficiency. The study revealed the importance of central infected zones and vascular bundles in nodule function.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2024

Pinpointing coal plants to convert to nuclear energy, considering both practicality and community support

A comprehensive analysis of US coal power plants reveals feasibility for conversion to advanced nuclear reactors, providing valuable insights for policymakers and utilities. The study uses a GIS-based tool to evaluate socio-technical and economic factors, suggesting a broad spectrum of suitability levels across different locations.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEnergy Reports·DateJul 9, 2024